I probably receive the most compliments about my complexion.
People always ask me, “What’s your secret?” “How do you get such nice skin?”
The answer is pretty simple. I take care of my face. I have a slight addiction to facial beauty products, which is interesting considering I don’t use much hair products or makeup. But facial beauty products? Sign me up. I’m always on the hunt for the best items to hydrate, cleanse, and soften my skin.
Since I’m always being asked, I thought I’d share the facial beauty products I use daily. And, while I was at it I shot photos of other essential beauty products I use. I’d love to hear if you’ve used any of these, or better yet, if you have other suggestions.
These are my tried and true beauty staples. Note, I have DRY SKIN, so these products might not be suitable for everyone.
1. Boscia Enlivening Amino-AG Eye Treatment, $38 – I use this mornings and nights, dabbing a bit under my eyes. I’ve seen a noticeable difference after a few weeks. And it’s organic, which I fully support.
2. I used this Sensaria toner for years, and it’s finally run its course. Unfortunately, Sensaria went out of business, so I am on the hunt for a new toner.
3. Epicurean Moisture Surge Hyaluronic Acid Gel – I purchased this at Vida Spa in Seatle. I will admit I don’t use it as much as I used to, mostly because I was freaked out by the word “acid” after thinking about it. But really, it makes your skin super soft and locks in moisture so if you can get over the terminology, it’s amazing.
4. Toothpaste – Don’t hate on the toothpaste. This is the #1 pimple fighter. I don’t care what anyone says. I put a dab on a pimple at night and the next morning it usually comes into a white head. I gently compress the pimple with a warm rag until it cools down, and then gently scrape off the whitehead with my nail (after washing my hands!). I know they say to prick it with a needle doused in rubbing alcohol, but that freaks me out. I then put a spot treatment (#8) on top of the zit right away, after gently squeezing out the additional pus. Note, if you get to a clear discharge, or worse blood, stop squeezing right away!
5. Neutrogena Ageless Essentials Continuous Hydration Moisturizer with SPF 25, $13 – I love how this hydrates without feeling oily. Plus, it’s a really high SPF. I’m still on the lookout for an organic version I like as much, but right now it is Neutrogena for me.
6. Boscia Restorative Night Moisture Cream, $48 – I have super dry skin in the winter, so I bought this as an intensive moisturizing night cream. It works great, and a little goes a long way. Plus, thumbs up for being organic.
7. Boots Botanics Complexion Refining Clay Mask, $9 – Another organic pick, this mask is great for adding extra moisture to your skin while clarifying.
8. Clean & Clear Invisible Blemish Treatment, $5 – I use this as my everyday pimple fighter, since you can put it on during the day discreetly.
9. Ayurmedic Vacha Facial Cleanser for Dry Skin (right) & Orange Blossom Exfoliating Milk, $30 each – I haven’t been able to find this online. I purchased them at Vida Spa in Seattle and I absolutely love both treatments. The exfoliant is gentle and smells delicious, while the facial cleanser keeps my skin blemish free. Two of the best facial products I ever purchased.
1. Pacifica Tuscan Blood Orange Body Butter, $18 – This stuff smells good enough to eat and is super moisturizing.
2. Epicurean Tea Tree Oil Lip Balm – I bought this at Vida Spa in Seattle and fell in love. It’s a great intensive treatment for when my everyday Vaseline addiction just won’t cut it.
3. Vaseline – My go-to, my baby. I carry this tub around with me everywhere. It’s the best lip treatment and can double as a cracked skin treatment, especially when you are sick and your nose is abused from tissues.
4. Hovans Medi Cream Bikini Saver, $22 – I use this to tame in-grown hairs and moisturize the nether regions. Perfect for after waxing or sugaring.
5. Boots Botanics Soothing Eye Makeup Remover, $17 – Another organic product for the win. This is one of the best makeup removers I’ve used. It takes even the peskiest waterproof eye makeup off in only a few sweeps with a tissue.
6. Lush Mint Julips Lip Exfoliant, $9 – This is amazing for defeating dry skin and making your lips smooth and even for lip stick application. Plus it’s yummy enough to eat!
7. Smith’s Rosebud Salve, $6 – Smells yummy. Keeps my lips super moisturized. Has a smooth, silky consistency. Heaven in a tube.
8. Moroccan Oil Treatment, $15 – They had me at the musky smell, but it is also great at adding shine and moisture. I use this after blow drying sometimes to tame flyaways.
9. Sephora by OPI Clear Top Coat, $9.50 – I use this all the time to extend the life of a pedicure, or even to stop runs in stockings.