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It's the perfect time of year to share some beauty favorites. I'm including some for both warm weather and cooler weather, and some that I use year-round. I'm no expert, and I didn't consult a dermatologist or makeup artist, but I enjoy trying new things (especially when friends share their favorites). Now, I'm passing those suggestions on to you!
I start by taking one really invigorating shower each week, when I exfoliate my skin and then follow up with some extra skincare attention. I definitely notice the benefits, and it doesn't really take a lot of extra time to do this bit of self care.
Skincare
Avene - I like the Retrinal product for shallow wrinkles around my eyes (it really seems to make a visible difference) and the Hydrance Serum feels amazing after showering and before putting on makeup. It is especially cooling on the skin after sun exposure. These are more of an investment than most of the others on this list, but they do last over six months each, even with daily use.
Acure Brightening - This is another feel-good product, one that I use every evening in summer. It's lightweight, so I use this one during the warmer months (and switch to the Acure hydrating cream in winter). Acure products are both clean and affordable!
Bliss Peel- Based on the instructions, I do not use this when I'm in the sun a lot, but once the pool closes, I'll be back to applying one of these each week. I was pleased with them this past spring.
Biore Strips - These are totally old school, but I still use the nose pore strips, and they are so satisfying!
Vanicream - I have sensitive skin, which is getting more so as I get older, so along with their sunscreen, I've switched to Vanicream body wash and body lotion. All of their products are excellent if other brands lead to irritation or itchiness.
Makeup
Beautycounter - I continue to look for clean products, and Beautycounter is a great source. I like the tinted moisturizer, and I mix it with my Avene serum. It smells amazing!
Thrive Cosmetics Eye Brightener - I've been using the pink several days a week for about six months, and I love how quickly it can be applied. I'm going to reorder soon, and I plan to add a darker brown as well.
Anastasia Brow Wiz - If I wear no other makeup, I wear concealer and this, with a bit of blush. In fact, I have this on my Amazon Subscribe & Save list so that I never run out!
Amazing Concealer - Ditto on this one--I wear this in Light Beige every day!
Tools
Microdermabrasion - I've been using this tool weekly for over a month now, and I feel like my skin is a bit smoother and my pores are noticeably smaller. There's a bit of a learning curve, but I'm starting to get the hang of it.
Exfoliating Facial Brush- There are many expensive exfoliating brushes out there, but I've been happy with this one for several years now. I love that the replacement heads are affordable too!
Pumice Stone - I hate the feeling of that scratchy skin on your heels rubbing against other parts of your feet, so I started using a pumice stone awhile ago, and that (along with my Vanicream lotion) has made all the difference.
This does not include everything in my vanity cabinets, but these are some of the products I feel either extremely loyal to (like the Brow Wiz and Vanicream), or I've recently discovered and wanted to share (like Microdermabrasion and Bliss Peels).
For more about Self Care, check out one of our earliest posts!
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