Since 2010 is winding down in just a few days, I thought I’d take a moment to list my favorite beauty products (both new and old) that I’ve discovered/been using constantly over the past few months.
Skincare:
– Borghese Fango Ristorativo: the best mud mask I’ve found. A weekly mud mask plus a weekly overnight application of Boscia’s Intensifying Moisture Pack has made my once-scaly skin a whole lot more manageable.
– Strivectin Retexturizing Scrub*: my favorite of the products in the line, this scrub has singlehandedly made me an advocate for the benefits of exfoliating biweekly. Huge difference. Read more here.
– Clarisonic Mia: it’s pricey…but yup, it’s worth all the buzz. And it’s really fun to use.
– Rain Africa soaps: this company, which I just stumbled upon in Rockefeller Center a few weeks ago, is just amazing. More on them later, but for now, suffice it to say that the soaps are extraordinary (and make gorgeous gifts).
– Cor Silver Soap*: I love it. It’s ridiculously expensive ($125 for the large bar), but…I just adore the stuff. And I’m still working my way through a sample size that I picked up in September, so I’d advise snagging one of those (they’re just $15) before committing to the Big Purchase.
– L’Oreal YouthCode Day/Night Cream* (available in stores January 2011): I like moisturizers rich but non-greasy, and this one is great for nighttime (and for extra-dry mornings). I leave it on the windowsill for an extra-cooling effect.
Makeup:
– Lancome Color Design Cream Lipstick in Love It!: simply the best nude lipstick that I’ve found. Click here for a nude lipstick tutorial.
– Laura Mercier Sequin Eye Color in Tiger’s Eye: a warm brown with a hint of sparkle that takes it from day to night.
– Bare Escentuals Mineral Lipcolor in Red Zin: actually discovered on this trip to London (go to :53 to see it in action). It’s the best deep wintry red evah.
– Carmex Moisture Plus (pink sheer lip tint)*: it’s just the perfect everyday lip tint – lots of moisture, and the subtlest pink shimmer.
– Stila Raspberry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain: this two-in-one color is perfect for travel. Just beware: it’s powerfully pigmented, and best applied with a mirror handy.
– Sally Hansen Sun Glow Powder Bronzer*: a couple of months ago I ran out of my usual NARS Laguna, and fished this (much) less expensive alternative out of my makeup drawer. Since then I’ve picked up a new Laguna…and I’m still using the Sally Hansen. Go figure.
– Makeup For Ever HD Foundation: Discovered at the Minwax Shoot, this stuff is incredible – it creates a totally flawless finish, whether you’re on camera or off.
Bedside Table:
– Rose Petals Rosewater: I spritz this on my face, body, and sheets every night just before going to bed. Click here for more rose-type products that I love.
– Proactiv Makeup Removing Towelettes: I keep a package of these in my bedside table for the nights when I’m too exhausted to make it to the sink. They’re non-drying, refreshing, and take absolutely everything off (also great for travel).
– Sprayology Homeopathic Spray*: A sort of silly premise – vitamins! that you spray under your tongue! so they get into your bloodstream faster! I mean, whatever. But I spritz every night anyway, because why not? The tube is right there on my bedside table. And I go to sleep feeling just a little extra-virtuous and healthful.
– Votre Vu Duette*: just own this. You will love it, and you will smell like cookies.
Other:
– Refresh Liquigel Eye Drops: because I have to. But man, do they feel good. (P.S. My eye is totally on the mend!)
– Essie polish in Secret Stash and Mink Muffs: still my favorite colors!
*Product sample generously provided by manufacturer.
