What’s On My Nightstand?

Nighttime is my absolute favorite part of the day. It’s the time to just relax your mind and pamper yourself. My nightstand is one of the most central areas of my bedroom. Today, I thought I would share the five key items that I have on my nightstand–and you should have these too! They bring me joy.

L I P  B A L M

I have long been a lip balm snob, typically using three or four at a time! Lately, the Primera Clean Berry Lip Mask has been my go-to; I have hardly used anything else! The texture is thick and waxy, yet sooo hydrating. The tacky texture really helps it stay on your lips. It smells like strawberry lemonade, and a little goes a long way. I just purchased my second pot of this balm. If you struggle with dry lips, or just want a little bit of luxury at the end of the day (or any time), give this lip mask a try. You won’t regret it!

H A N D + F A C E  C R E A M

Y’all are probably tired of hearing me mention First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream, but this is seriously the best cream on the market. I have been tempted to find and purchase a drugstore dupe, but I can’t bring myself to do that! The texture is so light, whipped and hydrating. It takes mere seconds to absorb, and it’s even thin enough to use it on your face. In a time when everyone is washing their hands more than regularly, this cream is a MUST! Your skin will thank you. No fragrance. Non-greasy.

C A N D L E

The Rustic House’s Ginger Root Soy Candle will remain my most favorite candle on Earth till the end of time. I have worked for this small company for a couple years now, and this is my favorite scent we’ve ever come out with. If you’re looking for a calming, unique scent, you HAVE to try Ginger Root. It’s equally spicy, citrusy and warm. It transforms your room into a relaxing oasis. I look forward to warming this candle every single day. Ginger Root is the best candle ever. You need it in your life. Candle Notes: Ginger, Saffron and Lemon.

K I N D L E

Reading is the best way to calm your brain at night! I cannot be without my Kindle. I started using one a decade ago, took a break for a few years because I missed traditional books, and now I use it every day. I love how light it is and how you can sample books before buying them.  I enjoyed each one of these titles (except for Hannah’s War) if you need something to read!

S U N G L A S S E S

I keep my sunglasses on my nightstand so I can find them easily when I’m headed out the door. I’m usually an aviator gal, but I saw these large, geometric sunnies at Anthropologie a few weeks ago and had to have them! I love the dark raspberry color with the tortoise shell print. They’re just different but also timeless and stylish. Sturdy, too. Pssst…they are on SALE right now!

In case you missed it..my JUNE 2020 FAVORITES

2019 SKIN CARE Favorites

I enjoy doing my skin care routine just about as much as I enjoy putting makeup on. Today, I’m going to share my favorite skin care products that I used this year. Let’s get started!

C l e a n s e r s

Facial Cleansers are one of my favorite products to try out! A couple weeks ago I discovered the Alba Botanica Pineapple Enzyme Purifying Cleanser. This lightweight gel really purifies and cleans my face well! Plus, it smells amazing. This cleanser gives you that deep clean feel, but doesn’t leave your skin dry or tight.

If you’re looking for something completely gentle for day-to-day use, I highly recommend the Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser. This fragrance free, gentle formula works great for taking off your makeup too. It has a creamy, moisturizing texture. I love that the bottle comes with a little plastic stopper thingy that makes it easy for travel!

T o n e r

Earlier this year, I discovered Thayer’s Coconut Water Witch Hazel Toner. It came in a standard bottle–I loved loved loved that stuff! When it came time to repurchase, I found this similar Coconut Water Facial Mist, and love it even more. I use it as a toner after I wash my face morning and night. It doesn’t contain alcohol, so it won’t burn or dry out your skin. Plus the spray bottle makes this toner even more refreshing. Everyone comes to my bathroom to use it. This is my second or third bottle.

M o i s t u r i z e r

I have mentioned the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration so many times on my blog throughout the past couple years. It remains my all-time-favorite facial moisturizer! The texture is just so light and whipped. It sinks into my skin so quickly and doesn’t feel heavy at all. This product is advertised as a body moisturizer, but I have found that it works great for my face. There’s no fragrance or unneeded bells and whistles. It checks all the boxes.

E x f o l i a t o r

A few weeks ago I searched the internet for an inexpensive exfoliator. I decided to try the Fourth Ray Beauty Clean Slate Foaming Exfoliator. I expected it to be a standard exfoliating gel or cream, but it is actually dry! Water activates this cleanser, transforming it into a light, foamy lather. It’s so refreshing and has a slight minty scent to it. I really enjoy it!

M a s k

This mask may look uninteresting and unglamorous, but it is TRULY a hidden gem on Amazon. If you’re looking for a purifying face mask, definitely give Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay a try. When mixed with raw apple cider vinegar (like Bragg’s), this mask gives your skin a really deep clean. You will feel like you’re in science class when you’re mixing it up, because it fizzes! My skin is not perfect all the time, but this feels really refreshing to my face when I rinse it off. It is also a little on the smelly side, but I think it’s so worth it! I leave it on for about ten minutes.

L i p  B a l m

It’s no secret that I am a lip balm enthusiast! I just love to collect different ones. The Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm has quickly become one of my favorites. It has a lightweight, creamy texture with no glossiness. Plus, it comes in several yummy scents–I’m loving the Grapefruit + Ginger. For it to be such a sheer formula, staying power is pretty impressive! This is a great basic lip balm for women or men.

In case you missed it, check out my 2019 Makeup Favorites!

Three High-End Lip Balms That Are WORTH THE MONEY

There are few things I love more than a good lip balm. Something about it is so so comforting, don’t you think? We all have our trusty lip balms from the drugstore, but sometimes you want to try something a little more luxurious. The thing is, it can seem like a rip-off to spend more than $5 or so. Well friends, you’re in luck–I’ve done the work for you!

Here are three of my favorite high-end lip balms that I think are worth every penny. Let’s get started!

The Kiehl’s ButterMask For Lips is the perfect little treat for the holidays. For one, the texture is true to its name; a butter-like paste. When you apply it to your lips, it feels like it forms a barrier, which has nice staying power. The best part is, it smells and tastes like sugar cookie dough! This balm melts down on your lips nicely, and has the richest texture. {$24; Sephora}

If you’re looking for some serious hydration, the Laneige Special Care Lip Sleeping Mask in Berry is the way to go! This thick and glossy lip balm comes in a pretty hefty pot, so a little goes a long way. I am on my second container; the first one lasted me a year and a half. This balm packs your lips with so much moisture, and leaves a glossy finish. It’s the first thing I reach for when my lips are super dry! This balm is a must-have during the winter. Has anyone tried anything else from this line? {$20; Sephora}

I just recently bought the Jouer Conditioning Lip Treatment, but I have quickly become a fan. It reminds me a lot of the Laneige Lip Balm, but in a tube. It has a simple, light and powdery fragrance. The texture is thick and glossy. A little does go a long way, but I like to be a little more generous and coat my lips in a glossy finish. I have a feeling this tube will last me months and months. It is also travel friendly! The tube also claims that it has lip plumping benefits, but I have yet to see much of a change. Nonetheless, this is a really good lip balm. {$16; Sephora}

What is your favorite lip balm to break out in the fall + winter? I am a lip balm junkie and am always looking for another good one! Let me know! 🙂

One Color, Three Looks | CORAL

These days, there are so many lip color formulas to fit your lifestyle. Whether I’m feeling a bold lip or a sheer, natural one, I always have a shade and formula for my mood. So today, I thought I’d share with you all my THREE favorite CORAL lip colors!

S T A I N

I just mentioned this item in my last blog post, but I figured it was worth another shout out! I received the Clarins Water Lip Stain in Red Water for free as part of a recent Influenster Campaign. While the bold, red-coral color intimidated me at first, I have really grown to like it! Red Water has a traditional fluid formula. While it applies quite vividly at first, once the water-like texture soaks into lips, it gives you a popsicle-like stain. I recommend exfoliating your lips before application; otherwise, it can get streaky! Need extra moisture? Just top with lip balm. Red Water has the prettiest, retro-inspired color. {$28; ulta}

L I P S T I C K 

Feeling adventurous? This next product isn’t for the faint of heart. When I first tried NYX Matte Lipstick in Indie Flick, I expected it to be a similar red-coral color–like Clarins Red Water. However, when I applied, it honestly looked traffic cone-orange on my lips! Oops. Thankfully, I made this bold, blood orange shade work for me!

What I like most about Indie Flick is the formula. While it has a matte finish, it is creamy…perfect for smooth application. However, it’s not so creamy that it slides all over your lips. It does a good job of staying put. I have found that Indie Flick looks best when you apply several layers while blotting with a tissue between each one. That way, you build up a subtle, wearable wash of color while still having that creaminess. This shade works best for medium to deep skin tones. It is a highly pigmented affordable option! The packaging is sturdy too.  {$6; ulta}

L I P S T I C K {but basically a balm}

Still feeling like a bright coral lip isn’t for you? Well, I have something that might change your mind. MAC Cremesheen Lipstick in Coral Bliss may be in bullet form, but it is an extremely wearable pink-coral balm. The texture is so light and creamy that it gives you the sheerest wash of color. I have to apply two to three coats to have it match my medium skin tone. You don’t even have to use a mirror! MAC’s lipsticks smell heavenly..like warm sugar cookies! {$18.50; most department stores}

NIGHTTIME Skincare Routine | Spring 2018

Hi friends!

As I was contemplating another makeup-focused post to write, I realized it’s been a while since I last discussed my nighttime skincare routine! I am blessed to not have any major complexion issues, so if you are looking for a fast and easy regimen, definitely keep on reading. I am really excited about and love each one of these products. Let’s get started!

C L E A N S E  + M O I S T U R I Z E 

Cleansing Sticks are a fairly new trend on the market! For those of you who don’t know, it is basically a solid facial cleanser that comes in a twist-up tube. I recently traveled to D.C. and wanted a cleanser that wouldn’t spill in my suitcase, so naturally I picked up this St. Ives Matcha Green Tea + Ginger Cleansing Stick. 

At first, I was a little reluctant to try; I was afraid the coconut oil in the cleanser would break me out or make me feel greasy. However, I was pleasantly surprised! This cleanser works into a nice lather when applied to my face. The wind was intense in DC; I was afraid my skin would become dry and flaky. But I really think this cleansing stick kept my face nice and lightly moisturized while cleansed!

I will definitely continue to use this. To keep bacteria from harboring, I spray it with hydrogen peroxide, rinse well, and wipe the cleansing stick off with a towel. I’ve been using it morning by itself and at night with my Clarisonic Mia 2. So far so good!  {$8; target.com}

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I like to keep my moisturizer as simple as possible! For the past couple months I’ve been using the Simple Water Boost Hydrating Gel Cream. I received this for free as part of an Influenster VoxBox, and I would purchase this moisturizer on my own! It reminds me of a more affordable version of the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel Cream. It has the exact same texture!

This moisturizer has a very light, hydrating texture. It sinks right into my skin, leaving soft and lightly moisturized! It’s not the least bit heavy or greasy. I love it! {$10; target.com}

When I’m not too lazy to show my skin a little extra love, I’ll do a mask and apply acne treatment! One of my favorite Masks is the SkinFood Egg White Pore Hot Steam Pack. I got this from Ulta months ago! It has a grainy texture, which is great for exfoliation. When you apply it to your face, you’ll notice a warming sensation. I leave this on for about five minutes. When I rinse, my skin is super smooth and soft! {$13; ulta.com}

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The GlamGlow SuperMud Clearing Treatment is technically a mud mask, but I use it as a spot treatment for my blemishes. I usually leave it on overnight. When I wake up, my blemish is significantly smaller and un-swollen. I received a free deluxe sample of this, but I would consider buying the $25 travel size. It truly does work like a charm! The SuperMud Clearing Treatment is a MUST-HAVE for anyone who deals with breakouts. {$25 for travel size; sephora.com}

 H A N D S

Because I have Cerebral Palsy and use a walker and wheelchair to navigate the world, my hands are at work all day long. Pushing me in my wheelchair, gripping onto my walker, etc. Between that and battling the harsh elements and trying to resist getting sick, my hands are dried out by the end of the day.

To combat the dryness, I use either the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream or Nucifera The Balm. Both of these products are unbelievably effective moisturizers!

The FAB cream has a lightly whipped texture. It is fragrance free and fast absorbing. I’ve also used this on my lips and face when they are really chapped. I’m also on my second container. This stuff is just so good! {$30 for 6 oz.; sephora.com}

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Nucifera Balm is chocked full of butters and oils, so it has a much more emollient texture. It’s greasy–but in a GOOD way! I consider this more of a treatment than a typical balm. I apply it before I go to sleep; my hands are so soft in the morning!  {$20; amazon.com}

L I P S

I am a true lip balm hoarder and have a vast collection on my nightstand, but lately I’ve been reaching for the Fresh Sugar Lip Caramel Hydrating Balm. If you want literal silk on your lips, purchase this lip balm! The texture is light and creamy, hence the caramel-like feel. The product itself smells like roses, which is nice but it would’ve been cool if it had a warm, caramel-y scent to match the texture!

Nonetheless, this balm is so luxurious and effective.  {18; sephora.com}

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I hope you all enjoyed this post! What are your nighttime skincare must-haves? I would love to know!

The best neutral lip colors!

Sometimes you’re just not in the mood for a bold lip. Sometimes you just want something easy to throw in your purse. Sometimes you just want a classic, neutral lip color. So today, I thought I would share my favorites with you all.

The best part is, you can find three out of four of these items at the drugstore. Let’s get started!

Maybelline Color Sensational The Buffs Lip Color in Truffle Tease is a classic, caramel-nude shade. In my opinion, Maybelline has some of the best lipsticks at the drugstore; they are ultra-creamy, comfortable, and have a nice color payoff. Truffle Tease has the slightest pinky undertone, so it doesn’t wash me out. You can swipe on one coat for a sheer look or two to three, depending on how bold you want it. To make Truffle Tease pop even more, fill your lips in with a lip liner before applying. This will help staying power! Nonetheless, this lipstick goes with most any look. A great basic lip for your makeup collection.

For the past few months, I’d heard several YouTubers rave about how good the L’Oreal Infallible Pro Matte Liquid Lipsticks are. It turns out, these are no joke and actually have really nice staying power! One of the shades I own is Cowboy–a mid-toned, milk chocolate brown shade. Despite the 90’s vibe that Cowboy has, it is actually quite wearable! It reminds me of Kat Von D’s Lolita without the rosy undertone. The formula is comfortable and has a non-drying, suede-like finish. Cowboy starts to fade in the center of my mouth throughout the day, but I don’t mind reapplying if needed. It has truly become one of my favorites.

If you’re more of a gloss gal, I have the perfect one for you–the elf Lip Plumping Gloss in Mocha Twist. This gloss is so simple yet gorgeous! I would describe it as a tawny rose shade. It has medium pigmentation, not too sheer or bold. As for the “plumping” claim, there is a slight cooling sensation, but nothing more than that. Nonetheless, Mocha Twist is an everyday, universally flattering color. Plus, it only costs a few dollars. The only downside is the packaging is on the cheap side, so the black covering of the cap comes off. This is not a big deal, though!

If you’re simply looking for something to nourish your lips this winter, let me tell you about my most favorite, ride-or-die lip balm–The First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Intensive Lip Balm.  Don’t let the waxy texture or medicinal smell fool you–this balm is luxurious and effective. It actually stays on your lips, keeping them nice and soft and moisturized! This is the best after you wear a liquid or matte lipstick. For best results, I recommend exfoliating your lips BEFORE you put this on. That way, the balm really gets to sink in and work its magic. It truly is a miracle worker, and worth the slightly more expensive price tag. I’m on my second pot!

Truffle Tease, Cowboy, Mocha Twist

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So there ya have it, my favorite neutral lip colors at the moment! What are some of your lip staples in your beauty collection??

 

Makeup I Didn’t Like…AT FIRST

Today I thought I’d post a little something different. Have you ever bought makeup that you didn’t like at first, but then gave it another chance or two and changed your mind? Well, I have! Here are some beauty items that weren’t my favorite initially, but eventually grew on me. Let’s get started!

When Wet ‘N’ Wild came out with their PhotoFocus Foundation earlier this year, it was all the rage! YouTubers praised this thrifty foundation nonstop. So of course, I had to try it for myself.

When I first dispensed it on my face using the spatula applicator, I was taken aback by the cloying, paint-like scent. Not very pleasant! The consistency wasn’t too heavy or too sheer, so that was a positive. When I blended it in with my RealTechniques sponge, I wasn’t thrilled about how the foundation was blending into my skin. It just looked powdery and uneven.

I set this item aside for a month or more, convinced that I didn’t like it at all. But one day, I purchased a more dense makeup sponge from Sephora and gave this foundation another shot. After dampening the sponge and squeezing out ALL the water, it applied much more smoothly and didn’t look powdery. Score!

Also, I have found that it also applies nicely with a densely-packed foundation brush. This also allows higher coverage! The paint scent obviously still exists, but it dissipates. The coverage is medium. I just have to make sure that I don’t apply TOO MUCH to my face or I’ll break out.

Bottom line: I think this foundation is suitable for all skin types. It has a nice natural finish; not too matte or radiant. You just can’t beat the price!

The Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow is another hyped-up product of the year. Who doesn’t love to add some glitter to their eye look every now and then?

I purchased the shade Kitten Karma; a classic beige shade. I figured I could pair it with a lot of different looks! This eyeshadow is obviously straight glitter with a light, creamy consistency. When I first applied, I simply used standard eyeshadow primer. By the time I finished my look, I had glitter all over my cheeks. OH NO!!!

I have a couple of suggestions to help this glitter eyeshadow stay in place:

PILE ON the glitter glue. Don’t be scared! I use one from NYX that comes in a small, travel-friendly tube. The texture is not annoyingly sticky –but smooth. I simply apply it to a base eyeshadow before putting on the glitter. A generous amount helps everything stay in place. I use a synthetic eyeshadow brush to pat everything down.

Wipe off the excess glitter. Before I apply the glitter, I wipe the sponge-tip applicator off on the sides. This will protect from fallout. It’s also important to not over-apply!

When I first applied the It Cosmetics Je Ne Sais Quoi Hydrating Color Awakening Lip Treatment, I honestly thought it was just a basic lip balm. I didn’t really notice a color change to my lips.

Honestly, the intensity of the pink color just depends on the day. Some days it’s very subtle, while others it’s more pronounced on my lips. Nonetheless, this balm is really hydrating and nourishing. It’s not the least bit greasy or heavy.

If you’re looking for a cushiony balm that gives you a natural wash of color, look no further. 🙂

I have been a huge fan of the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water for the longest time, so I decided to give the Waterproof version a go. The cute travel-size version had me sold!

I was expecting the waterproof version to be just as refreshing as the original. But to be honest, it felt much more greasy! My face didn’t feel refreshed, so I put this product aside for a while.

One night, I was trying to remove a long-lasting liquid lipstick. My makeup wipe couldn’t budge the formula, so I decided to reach for my Waterproof Micellar Water. Let me tell ya, it took the stubborn liquid lipstick RIGHT OFF without effort! I was really surprised.

If you wear waterproof mascara or any stubborn, long-wearing makeup, I suggest using this product to remove it. The emollient, greasy (in a good way) formula is so effective. No more tugging at your face!

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I hope you all enjoyed reading this post! We never buy makeup with the intention of not liking it. But sometimes if you give it a second (or third) chance, you may end up changing your mind and loving it. 🙂

SEPHORA lip balm haul

Lip balm is one of my favorite beauty items to buy. No matter how many populate the nightstand by my bed, I always find a reason to buy one more tube or pot! Something about it is just so cozy and comforting, don’t you think?!

A few months back, I did a post on my favorite lip balms,  and I’ve already found three more that I love just as much. It’s safe to say my lips aren’t getting chapped anytime soon!! Here are my thoughts on each of them…

Up first, we have Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Kiss Cupuacu Lip Butter. A few months back, YouTube Vlogger Tati raved on and on about this lip balm. As always, I had to try it for myself.

Honestly, I wasn’t too impressed with this lip butter at first. It just reminded me of a more expensive EOS Balm, so I sort of regretted spending money on it. But the more I used it, the more I started to love it. As the name suggests, this lip balm has a buttery, nourishing texture without being too greasy. It really does make your lips softer! I really think it would work well underneath a liquid lipstick because it wouldn’t change the finish.

Also, it has a soft, almond fragrance that reminds me of sugar cookies. I also love the chunkiness of the tube. Since the balm is thicker, you don’t have to repeatedly apply it. It has nice staying power, and the packaging is cute!

I do think I will purchase this lip butter again. A little bit goes a long way, and you won’t mind reapplying when you have to. 🙂

Up next, we have Kari Gran Lip Whip. I purchased the cinnamon flavor, but I’m not sure Sephora carries this flavor anymore!

Regardless of the flavor, these lip balms are superb! As the name suggests, these have a light, air-whipped texture. It goes on pretty thick, so once again, a little goes a long way. This lip whip does a very nice job of keeping your lips nice and supple. I love the chic, black enamel pot. The packaging is sturdy, and looks really elegant on my nightstand!

I only wish a little more balm came in each pot. I’ve had mine for nearly two months, and already about to run out. I’m eager to try the tinted lip whips!

For years and years I was a fan of the Rosebud Perfume Company‘s Rose Lip Salve. That little tin was a staple on my nightstand for what seemed like forever. I don’t know why I stopped using it, because they make really good products.

In the checkout line at Sephora (naturally), I spotted this Tropical Ambrosia Lip Balm. The bright and cheery packaging drove me to purchase it, if I’m being honest! The smell is strong but pleasant. The coconut and mango smell fruity, but it also has this caramel-like note in there that makes this balm really warm and cozy.

It would be really neat if this balm contained SPF or tasted as good as it smells. Regardless, this is a perfect lip balm for summer; it really hydrates my lips and gives them a subtle, natural sheen. 🙂

Hope you all enjoyed reading this post. I absolutely LOVE buying new lip balms–hopefully this will help you find your next favorite!!

Three lip balms that are the REAL DEAL

Who doesn’t love a luxurious balm to take care of their lips?!

There are countless lip balms out there that promise to deliver satisfactory results. Although I have a couple favorites from the drugstore (Carmex and Eos Sphere), sometimes I don’t mind spending a little extra for a more effective lip balm.

These are my three MOST FAVORITE (and ever so slightly) high-end lip balms that are the REAL DEAL..and worth every penny!

Lano Lips 101 Ointment Multipurpose SuperBalm // $17

If you’re looking for a classic, plain and simple lip balm, I recommend Lano Lips. This balm may come in a cute little tube, but the product inside packs a punch! It has no fragrances, chemicals or dyes.  Lano Lips is basically the much healthier version of petroleum jelly; it is made from lanolin oil.

The balm is so rich and thick that you will have to use some muscle to squeeze it out of the tube! I wish it came in a pot. Nonetheless, Lano Lips is still a great item.

Nuxe Reve de Miel Ultra Nourishing Lip Balm // $15

This French gem came into my life last November, and I haven’t stopped loving it ever since. I cannot say enough about this product! The texture is a rich, mattifying paste. It even has just a tad bit of grit to it to buff away dryness, and has a delicate orange scent. I’m nearly through my first pot of this, and have my sister and mom hooked, too!

This balm is just so elegant and posh. It has everything that you want in a lip balm–moisture, exfoliation, longevity, and a nice scent. Go ahead and treat yourself; BUY this!!

Laneige Special Care Lip Sleeping Mask // $17

I’ve just had this lip balm for a week now, but I am already impressed by it! This is the first Korean beauty item I’ve ever tried, and I’m eager to try more! This lip mask has a unique texture; it is like a thinly-gelled lip gloss. Almost milk-like, but not quite as fluid.

 When I apply a thin layer to clean, smooth lips, the balm starts to form a barrier. With that being said, it is not the least bit sticky–and it is VERY moisturizing. The scent reminds me of cherry Laffy Taffy, which is fun! It also lasts a long time. You get a ton of product too, so your money is well spent!

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Hope you all enjoyed reading this post! For best results, I recommend making sure that your lips are clean and free of flakiness before applying. You can exfoliate easily with a toothbrush. This will make sure the balm sinks in and does its job nicely. 🙂

Two MUST-HAVE winter skin savers

After six whole months of warm and sunny weather, the cold is finally beginning to settle in. As much as I love bundling up in cute and comfy warm clothes, I hate it when my skin gets chapped by the cold.

Lately, I have stumbled upon two items that have already COMPLETELY changed my life. I no longer have to worry about getting dry skin or flaky, chapped lips. These two items have worked magic on me, and so I wanted to share my thoughts with you!

A while back, I received a travel-sized tube of the cult-favorite First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream. I loved it so much that I decided to purchased a full-sized jar. I cannot say enough good things about this cream! Since I use a walker and my hands are constantly at work, I slather this stuff on them every night before bed. It keeps my hands really soft and free of dry, cracked skin.

The formula is so amazing; it’s a rich cream without being too heavy, and it’s not the least bit greasy. No need to worry about a funky smell; this stuff is fragrance free. I even apply a small amount if I have any dry patches on my face; it doesn’t break me out! The Ultra Repair Cream is just an all-around winner. I love how it’s just a simple but effective product with no fancy, unneeded bells and whistles.

To me, it is vital to have a nice lip balm on hand, especially during the cold seasons. The skin on our lips is so thin that it can get chapped very easily. The classic Carmex Lip Balm used to be the only product that would really and truly un-chap my lips…UNTIL I came upon this little gem.

Y’ALL. I’m just going to say it. Buy Nuxe Ultra-Nourishing Lip Balm right this minute. It is unlike any lip balm I have ever tried…really! Everything about it is so luxurious and unique!

Most lip balms tend to have a thin, petroleum-based texture. This isn’t always a bad thing, but when you have chapped lips, you need to have something a little more dense to fix the problem. This is what is so wonderful about the Nuxe lip balm. Instead of having a lightweight texture, this French-made item is thick with Shea Butter and natural plant oils while being a bit mattifying (not glossy). The formula really grips to your lips; it even lasts through a light snack or drink!

A delightful bonus about this balm is the light and delicate orange scent. I love it! Nuxe Ultra-Nourishing Lip Balm can be found on the Ulta website. $15 may seem a little much to spend on lip balm, but I think it it TOTALLY worth it. I’ve never tried anything like it.

Plus, you can most of the time lower the price slightly with an Ulta coupon. I saved about three dollars with this purchase, and even scored a free gift from Nuxe.

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These two items will truly be life savers during the cold months. Although they cannot be found at the drugstore and just a tad bit pricey, they are worth every penny. They are both unique and come with generous amounts of product. Both items will probably last me three to four months. Not bad!

I have been thoroughly impressed by these body and lip care items, and hope you will love them as much as I do!