Happy New Year! I cannot believe another year has come and gone. It’s no secret that 2018 was rough for me. There was a lot going on in my personal life, and sadly my blog suffered. But, it’s a fresh new year and I cannot wait to jump back into things! Like always, my top favorites is a two part series. Today will be the best of beauty products, and later this week will be my makeup favs. Let’s get started!
YEARLY FAVORITES {2018}
ERNO LASZLO SKINCARE
I’m going to start with a skincare line that totally changed my complexion. I discovered Erno Laszlo a few years ago, but never tried more than their makeup remover (which I always rave about). Then in late 2018 their fabulous PR team reached out to me, and the rest is skincare magic. After trying the Hydra-Therapy Boost Serum, and Phelityl Night Cream my skin has never looked better. My redness has significantly reduced, my dry patches are gone, and break outs are few and far in between.
The one down side of this line, is the price tag. These babies are expensive – and by expensive I mean in the $50-$200 range. On my own, I can’t afford such lavish products – mama has diapers to buy. But, if your budget allows it, I highly suggest trying Erno Laszlo. The serum and makeup remover are empty (so sad), but I do hope to save up and repurchase soon!
KERASTASE STYLING PRODUCTS
Another new to me product line was Kerastase. It was a brand on my radar for years, but since my budget went toward eyeshadow, I always lusted after the products from afar. Thanks to PR, I was able to try quite a few Kerastase products in 2018, and I’m officially obsessed. The shampoos smell delicious, and the styling products are heavenly. The leave-ins, serums, heat protectants – they are all fabulous! If you spend the money to color treat your hair, do yourself a favor, and spend a little extra on high end hair products. It really does make a difference.
L’OREAL ELVIVE DEEP CONDITIONER
From high end, to super affordable. If $30+ hair products just aren’t your jam, then you’ll adore the L’Oreal Elvive line. The shampoo and conditioner are long time favs. They smell incredible, and leave my hair silky soft. The leave-in conditioner is great for damaged hair, and the deep conditioner is ahhhmazing! This baby detangles, hydrates and conditions – all for less than $7. It’s also a lifesaver for processed hair. I highly suggest!
FRESH BODY WASH, LIP BALM & FACE MASK
This might as well say “the entire fresh lineup,” because I’m in love with it all 😆 But since we don’t have forever, I narrowed down my picks to the stand out products. First, we all know I’m loyal to the Sugar Lip Balms, and last year was no exception. But two new to me products that became instant favorites, were the Rose Face Mask and the Sugar Body Wash.
With my dry sensitive skin, I’m always weary of masks. Some are very drying, but this is perfect for adding hydration. It has a gentle cooling effect, and leaves my face feeling like velvet. I use it 1-2x per week, and it’s never made me break out. Same goes for the Sugar body washes, I’ve gone through THREE bottles, and love how it cleanses without stripping. I apply it on a loofa, lather up, and then use it to wash up and even to shave. It doesn’t dry me out, and I don’t get cuts or scrapes with shaving.
NATIVE DEODORANT
I’ve talked a lot about natural deodorants, so it should be surprise to see one in my yearly favs. So many people raved about Native, but it wasn’t until they landed at Target that I decided to finally see what the hype was about. I’m sure you can already guess, but I loved it and am so happy it’s easily accessible now!
In the past, my body had to get “used” to a natural deodorant. Meaning there would be a window of time when I’d sweat through them before they worked. Native worked from the very first use, and there’s been zero issue with stink, itchy arm pits, or break through sweating. The scents are a little bland, and pretty much all smell the same. But, I always wear fragrance so I don’t need my deodorant to smell. Other than that, I have no complaints!
PIXI GLOW OXYGEN MASK
Another mask I loved last year was the Pixi Oxygen Mask. It goes on like a serum, but once it’s exposed to air it starts to gently bubble. It feels a little ticklish, but it doesn’t burn or sting – so it’s perfect for sensitive skin. You only have to leave it on for a few minutes, then rise it off, and you’re left with a bright complexion.
BELIEF HUNGARIAN WATER ESSENCE
I received a deluxe sample of this from Sephora, and liked it so much I bought a full size. If the $98 Erno Laszlo serum is not within your means, then this is a great alternative. It provides hydration, without a sticky feel, and it wears great under lotion and makeup. I use it every single day, and it’s never irritated my skin. It’s $42, so it’s not super cheap, but still half the price of the Hydra-Therapy Boost Serum.
TRESEMMÉ FRESH & CLEAN DRY SHAMPOO
Last but not least is the best dry shampoo I’ve ever tried! Most dry shampoos leave roots feeling gross and weighed down, but this one doesn’t leave any noticeable residue. It also smells great, and gives awesome volume. Like most others, it will leave white marks, but they are easily removed with some back combing. Plus, it’s only $4.99, so YAY!
SHOP MY FAV BEAUTY PRODUCTS!
Thank you all SO much for your continued support. Last year was rough, but I can’t wait to see what 2019 has in store. Both personally, and for Collective Beauty! I’ll be posting my 2018 makeup favorites very soon, so stay tuned!
PIN ME!
See any of your top picks? I’d love to know!
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2018 was absolutely horrible. I hope 2019 is better for us both! I completely agree with your fondness for the Fresh mask. It’s terrific!
Oh no, so sorry to hear your 2018 sucked too. Here’s to a great 2019 filled with happiness – and yess the Fresh mask is a game changer!
So many of these are favorites of mine as well! I’m obsessed with the Loreal Hair Mask and everything from Fresh!!!
The L’Oreal mask is such a hidden gem at the drugstore! It seriously rivals my $20+ dollar masks!