My best recent purchases in self-care, skincare, and haircare
When you find a great product that does what it says, and more importantly, what you need it to do, you share about it. And so I am! Some of these are my holy grail now in beauty and self-care, and I hope you love them just as much. Especially as they won’t break the bank!
Let’s get to it, shall we?
Epielle Intensive Repairing Hand Masks
and
O'Keeffe's Working Hands Hand Cream
At the slightest drop in temperatures, my hands get cracking (literally and figuratively). I can’t seem to keep them warm, and especially hydrated. My usual hand creams and lotions only do so much to prevent dryness or heal them from cracking, so I ended up going for this unglamorous but effective hand cream. I also looked for other solutions. On a whim, I tried these deep moisturizing gloves and they have become lifesavers as they leave my hands hydrated and the skin feeling supple. Lifesavers during the cold season!
*I also recommend these and these, or this combo of socks and gloves).
Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Super Setter Pore-Minimizing Setting Spray
This makeup setting spray is the only product I found so far to prevent my makeup from melting or disappearing. The best part? It really does minimize pores, thus making the skin and makeup look better overall. Side note: I heard great things about this setting spray and I might try it once my current one runs out.
RoC Retinol Correxion Anti-Aging Retinol Moisturizer with Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid
This retinol cream is hands down my favorite (it actually replaced my other favorite reviewed here). I use it every night and I believe it’s making a huge difference in my skin. First and foremost, it doesn’t irritate it, which is something that can happen with retinol creams, and secondly, it doesn't give me dry patches, which can be another “side effect” of retinol creams. The best part? It doesn’t break the bank, given that I go through a jar every month.
COSLUS Water Dental Flosser
This fairly recent purchase has been an impactful addition to our dental hygiene. Apart from being an efficient flosser, it’s also been great at cleaning and removing stains and even plaque, so we’re really happy with it.
I’d say there’s a learning curve with this device, as well as figuring out the best setting for you (I use the “soft” and “massage” settings mostly, as the “clean” option is too intense for me), but once you do, it’s a “looking forward to” kind of experience.
Braun Skin Smart IPL: At-Home Alternative to Laser Hair Removal
Okay, this is not a recent purchase but I’ll never stop singing praises for this permanent hair removal device. Yes, permanent, because after almost 3 years, my hair still hasn’t come back. For full disclosure, I still use it once in a while as a preventative treatment, and I still have some thin hairs here and there (the device is not efficient on those), but the overall difference is astounding.
For my full review and tips, check out this post as there are things to consider before making this purchase.
*I own and used an old version; the new ones are indisputably faster and more efficient.
Hask Argan Oil Repairing Shine Hair Oil
I’ve been loyal to this product (reviewed here) for about 10 years, and I fully credit it for my split-end-free hair! It’s truly a product I must have. I’ll use it for as long as it exists! And it’s under $10!
SheaMoisture Hair Regrowth Treatment for Women Minoxidil Topical Solution UPS, 2% to Stimulate Hair Regrowth
I started using this product months ago when I noticed an alarming increase in my hair fall. I’ll write a more in-depth review of this product but the bottom line is that I’m very pleased with it. I noticed hair growth between weeks 2-3 of daily use (I only applied it once per day, after washing my hair vs. the recommended twice per day application). It’s non-greasy and fragrance-free.
*Please consult a doctor if you have any health issues or are taking medications as it may interfere.
**Please follow the instructions.
Shea Moisture Amla Oil Bond Repair Shampoo
I love this shampoo as it does what it says. Plus, it left my hair feeling healthy and looking voluminous. Obviously, I recommend the hair conditioner and repairing masque from the same line for best results.
*As with any repairing hair care, I recommend taking regular breaks from using it.
Castor Oil Lash Serum
I came across this castor oil lash serum and decided to give it a try. I started seeing results after two weeks of daily use — so far my lashes are longer, though I’m ultimately looking for thickness and fullness. A little goes a long way and I’ll continue using it and update on long-term results, but I’m happy with it so far!
OLAY Regenerist Vitamin C + Peptide 24 MAX Hydrating Moisturizer
I’ve shared numerous times that one of my main skin concerns is hyperpigmentation. Though it doesn’t look great, I don’t allow it to cripple me — those that are prone to it know that hyperpigmentation is an ongoing and frustrating issue. I gave up on it this past year and focused instead on skin texture and overall health. Recently, I purchased this Olay Regenerist Vitamin C + Peptide 24 MAX Hydrating Moisturizer on a too-good-to-pass-sale and used it for a week straight (day and night). And I admit I am shocked at the difference it made in fading those stubborn spots all over my face in such a short time. I had to go back to my retinol cream for the night as I was losing some of the contouring in my face, but I continue to use this Vitamin C cream during the day. This has been a lovely purchase so far!
What recent purchases wowed you?
