Sharing a handful of 2018 finds seems like an appropriate way to wrap up this never-ending winter. I’m not sure whether I’ll begin a monthly favorites list, but for now, enjoy my current top five. Full disclosure: two are masks because hi, have we met?
Simple Water Boost Sheet Mask
Drugstores are full of sheet mask options these days, including legit K-beauty imports. Sadly, finding a good one is like playing Russian Roulette. Yes to are a no for me, Neutrogena’s are OK, Garnier’s are good but not great… When Felicia of @thisthatbeauty raved about the Simple Water Boost formula, I had to grab some during a recent CVS drive-by. They. Are. Amazing. She did mention a very bio-celullose’y feel and omg is that the truth. Featuring a perfect fit and very absorbent fiber, it is incredibly hydrating and delivers plump and glowing skin in only ten minutes. Warning: Simple Water Boost isn’t easy to find, so get multiples whenever you see them in stock. $3.99 a piece cvs.com
Volition Detoxifying Silt Gelée Mask
Ok, I could easily pick a monthly mask favorite, but the Volition Detoxifying Silt Gelée Mask has been in rotation way longer. The clever formula is actually a super hydrating mud mask (silt is a mineral-rich sand clay hybrid sourced from pristine lakes) that purifies, firms, and repairs the skin. The bouncy gel texture cools upon application, dries without cracking, and rinses off beautifully. What’s in it? Silt, Kaolin, Squalane, Jojoba, Shea Butter, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, and more. Results? My combination skin looks fresh, radiant, and rested. $60 (50ml) sephora.com
Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter
Fact: there isn’t a time I’m without a tube of the Charlotte Tilbury Unisex Healthy Glow. I had no idea, however, of how life-changing the new Flawless Filter complexion perfecting potion would be. This primer, highlighter, enhancer – anything you want it to be – delivers a soft-focus glow that is IRL perfection. Natural looking, a far cry from a full-on shimmer, the barely iridescent solution is also hydrating, which leaves behind a subtle dewy finish. Use it under or over makeup, even solo on your cheekbones, and dial up much-needed radiance after a late night. The #3 brings me back from the dead. $44 (30ml) charlottetilbury.com
Origins Original Skin Pore Perfecting Cooling Primer with Willowherb
You’re probably sick of me raving about the Origins GinZing SPF 40 tinted moisturizer. But wait, guess what I discovered recently? It works even better with the Original Skin Cooling Primer underneath! This crackling, cooling foam delivers hydration, evens out tone, and tightens pores without the dreaded greasy slip of a traditional primer. Infused with Salicylic Acid, Cucumber, Bamboo, and Caffeine Extracts, it also provides anti-aging perks courtesy of Arginine and Sodium Hyaluronate. $32 (60ml) sephora.com
Rene Furterer Karite Nutri Intense Nourishing Overnight Care
Rarely am I this excited about a hair product, much less a conditioning treatment, but for those with dry or dull hair, the Rene Furterer Karite Nutri Overnight leave-in is next-level magic. And with winter coming to an end, I’m betting your hair is as beaten up by this crazy weather as mine. Fueled by ethically sourced Shea Butter and Oil, the creamy formula is packed with a blend of proteins, fats, and lipids to restore any much-needed shine by morning. Apply to damp hair, get some sleep, and prepare to wake up to soft, healthy looking, infomercial hair. No joke. No pillow stains. $48 (75ml) dermstore.com
Hmmm… GinZing always turns out several shades darker than my super fair skin, but I’ll definitely check out this primer. A skin cooling anything is a welcome addition in Texas. Thank you!
Author
Oh, no! I can actually imagine the GinZing tint wouldn’t work on very fair skin. If you can sample the cryo tightening product from Kate Somerville, it’s also very cooling and the sensation lasts longer. So neat!