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    Best in Beauty 2020: The Best Skin, Hair, Makeup, and Body Products of the Year

    We’ve discussed at length the horrors of 2020—and trust me, getting this year over and done is at the top of my to-do list right now. But when I take a step down memory lane, I realize just how much beauty has shaped my year. I’ll never forget the way applying a hair mask during the workday felt last March, or the way putting on makeup to see my friends for the first time in months made me feel in June. I’ll always remember what it was like making that first hair appointment after months of grown-out roots, and the joy I felt tipping my stylist for the hard work she put in bringing these strands back to life. There was joy and excitement around finding new Black-owned brands to support, and I felt pride in being able to fill my routine with new companies and products that benefited historically-marginalized communities.Although it might seem surprising, beauty products themselves are a reminder of everything that we’ve been through this year. The face masks we tried when we had nothing to do at home, the spot treatments we used when the other face masks broke us out, the eyeshadows we wore to make our eyes the star of the show when you couldn’t see the rest of our faces, the hair treatments we purchased to keep our color intact when we couldn’t see our stylists, the images we Pinned when we thought we wanted quarantine bangs, how we finally tried Baby Foot and retinol and all those products that make you look wild for a few days because we weren’t seeing anyone, the way we welcomed the splurges on the daily essentials like body wash and razors—what the heck, the world was ending! 
    The beauty industry, much like fashion and wellness, will never just be products; they’re ways we’ve experimented and shifted and grown throughout time. And because of this, we felt it was necessary to give back to them this year. In honor of the ways beauty has impacted us this year, we pulled together a truly robust list of every beauty favorite from our team and our readers in every category you could possibly think of. As you’re reading this list, you’ll see favorites from our team, suggestions from our readers (some that we love too and others we’re dying to try in 2021), as well as the “hero products” our entire team was obsessed with in 2020. Plus, we’re breaking down the best innovation, the best splurge and budget-finds, the brands we loved, and what we used at our WFH desks all day. Whether you’re a beauty-lover or looking for a new favorite, we hope this list inspires you to think about the way beauty has impacted your 2020. 

    Makeup Remover
    Face Halo Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
    2020 was the year our editors officially said goodbye to makeup wipes, introducing this makeup removing cloth for everything from removing cleansing balms to washing our face after a workout.

    Essence/Toner
    Laneige Cream Skin Toner and Moisturizer
    This innovative toner balances your skin’s pH while leaving it ultra-moisturized. It’s enough of a moisturizer for oily skin and leaves dry skin plump and ready for heavier products.

    Cleanser
    The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
    I picked up this squalane cleanser from The Ordinary this summer, and I’ve never looked back. I have super dry skin all year round, and time and time again, I’ve trialed cleansers that have left my face feeling stripped and dry AF. It applies similar to an oil cleanser and leaves my skin feeling smooth and moisturized. It’s super affordable and is now offered in a larger size (150 mL) which I’ll be buying when mine runs out.—Ashley Selleke, Editorial Assistant

    Moisturizer
    CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
    After testing basically every product in CeraVe’s line, our editor found this one: the perfect night cream to moisturize, smooth, and balance skin.

    Hydrating Serum
    The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
    If there’s one product Evergirl readers are obsessed with, it’s The Ordinary’s Hyaluronic Acid serum—and our editors couldn’t agree more!

    Moisturizing Mask
    Town and Anchor Golden Masque
    We love face masks that we not only feel good putting on our skin, but we feel good buying. This 99 percent naturally derived, vegan, sustainable, and cruelty-free luxurious mask comes from one of our favorite small beauty businesses in Chicago. The Golden Masque (you know it’s luxe when it’s spelled masque!) is a go-to in my beauty cabinet because of the rich antioxidants and essential minerals that stimulate renewal and reduce inflammation for instant brightening and boosted glow. Gentle enough for sensitive skin yet entirely effective, it’s the perfect mask for any skin type.—Josie, Associate Editor

    Detoxifying Mask
    Rosen Earth Mask
    For keeping skin clear and moisturized (two traits you often don’t see in a skincare product), our editor raves up and down about this mask.

    Tool
    NuFace Mini Facial Toning Device
    The tool that took over our editors vanities and wishlists this year, the NuFace is *the* facial toning device on the market that truly makes a difference in the texture, tone, elasticity, and tightness of your skin.

    Facial Oil
    Biossance 100% Sugarcane Squalane Oil
    I love oil products, but this squalane one has been a staple for years. Made of sugarcane, the natural oil is so hydrating that it gives you that dewy French-girl glow without even trying. You can actually use it for your hair, body, or face, but I choose to use it as a more luxurious (yet totally affordable) face oil at night.—Thao Thai, Executive Editor

    Lip Balm
    Aquaphor Lip Balm Repair Stick
    This classic lip balm will always live in our bags—and our hearts. We love this stick version for wearing under a mask!

    Brightening Serum
    Maelove Glow Maker Serum
    You might be living under a rock if you’ve never seen us rave about this serum. If you want glowy skin, this is it—there’s not much else to say.

    Retinol Serum
    Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
    When I was interested in introducing a retinol into my skincare routine just this year, I found that this product was a good starting point. This gentle serum is perfect for first-time users. I use it about every other night under my moisturizer and definitely have noticed a healthy glow and softness to my skin. As someone who has heard of people breaking out badly when using a retinol, I was worried at first but because it’s not too intense and contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, I never experienced that. I highly recommend this product for beginners!—Keely Geist, Social Media Editor for The Everymom

    Sunscreen for Light Skin Tones
    EltaMD UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40
    Our editors swear by a whole host of EltaMD’s sunscreen line—whether it’s for acne-prone, oily, normal, or dry skin types, there’s a sunscreen in this line for every concern.

    Concealer
    Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Concealer
    I tried a lot of concealers in 2020. When you’re stuck inside for weeks at a time, finding the motivation to apply a full-face of foundation, let alone wear it all day, is simply far-fetched. I began using concealer exclusively most days, which began my quest for the best concealer that I could use under my eyes and all over the face. In a last-ditch effort a month ago, I tried Pat McGrath’s Sublime Skin Perfection concealer, and now I’ll never be without it. It’s so good, I use it as a foundation all over the face pretty much every single day. It’s a lightweight formula with a satin finish that dries down without looking cakey or settling into lines. It’s officially the gold-standard of concealers for me. —Beth, Associate Editor

    Blush
    Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
    When we asked our readers their favorite products, we heard an outpour of love for this highly-pigmented cream blush from Selena Gomez’s new line, Rare Beauty.

    Highlighter
    Vesca Beauty Stargaze Luminous Glow Highlighter
    The creamy texture and the glowy pay off with just a touch of product has made this highlighter a front runner for me. I use it on my cheeks, brow bone, and as an eyeshadow. It’s so versatile, and the compact packaging makes it easy to pop into a bag without taking up too much space. —Bianca Lambert, Contributing Editor

    Eyeshadow Palette
    Colourpop Eyeshadow Palettes
    Whether you’re going for a classic neutral eye or changing it up with bright colors, Colourpop has the formula and price to make it happen.

    Fenty Beauty
    Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Bronzer

    A good bronzer is hard to come by, especially in a cream formula. But our editors fell head over heels for this as soon as it released last spring. Available in varying shades to contour and bronze all skin tones, this blends evenly and stays put all day. We couldn’t ask for anything more.
    Read our full review!

    Mascara
    Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara
    I must admit: I hate mascara. I hate when it looks clumpy, when it sheds onto your face, and (most of all) when you have to remove it. Thankfully, the Thrive Mascara solves literally all of those problems (and makes me feel, instead, like a mascara lover). It goes on very liquidy (so don’t sneeze!), meaning it doesn’t flake or clump off, but elongates. It makes your lashes look much longer, but then (thankfully) isn’t a pain to take off. When the day is done, I use cleansing oil followed by a gel cleanser, and my eyelashes are back to their clean (short) selves in no time. —Abigail Yonker, Social Media Editor

    Eyebrow Pencil
    UOMA Beauty BROW-FRO Baby Hair
    Eyebrow pencils are not all created equal. This has a variety of shades for all hair colors, and the formula is waxy enough to stay put all day long.

    Eyebrow Gel
    Patrick Ta Beauty Major Brow Shaping Wax
    The bushy, model-esque brow trend finally became available this year in the form of this brow shaping wax. Use with water or setting spray and a spoolie to make your brows look like you just got a brow lift.

    Lipstick
    Lisa Eldridge True Velvet Lip Color
    There is no lipstick on the market that looks like a Lisa Eldridge True Velvet Lip Color. As a veteran makeup artist (for celebs like Dua Lipa and Eva Green) and Youtube tutorial queen, it’s no wonder Eldridge created what is perhaps the best lip product I have ever used. These lipsticks are the softest texture, both gliding on and staying put throughout the day (no drying out or cracking). They are so gorgeously pigmented, it’s like you covered your lips in a bolt of the richest velvet fabric, and the colors range from creamy beiges to the moodiest wines to shocking, saturated pinks. The tubes are gold and heavy—super luxe and worth the price. If I could only wear one lipstick for the rest of my life, this would be it—in the shade Velvet Beauty, the perfect deep, dusty rose. —Kelly Etz, Senior Graphic Designer and Course Director

    Tool
    Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge
    There’s nothing this sponge can’t do: apply foundation, blend cream blush and bronzer, pat down concealer and powder, and take away any cakiness. Oh, and it’s under $7.

    Shampoo and Conditioner—Medium/Thick Hair
    Rahua Hydration Shampoo and Conditioner
    I trade out my shampoo and conditioner as often as I change my clothes—flirting with different brands without commitment, trying everything and anything under the sun to find that perfect formula. I bought Rahua on a whim after hearing about the brand for ages on Instagram and in the (web) pages of Into the Gloss. The clean brand is all about healthy hydration, which my hair sorely lacks. I loved both of these so much that I would repurchase—high praise from a shampoo addict bent on trying everything she can. I could tell right out of the shower that my hair was silkier and easier to manage than usual and my blow dry (while still arduous—your girl has a LOT of hair) yielded salon-worthy results. If you’re looking to splurge on your hair, this is your product. —Kelly

    Shampoo—Curly/Coily Hair
    Curls Blueblurry Bliss Reparative Hair Wash
    Readers shared that they love this budget-friendly, Black-owned haircare line for curly/coily hair at Target, suggesting this hair wash for clean, bouncy, moisturized curls.

    Shampoo and Conditioner—Curly Hair
    DevaCurl Wavy Curls-On-The-Go Kit
    Our editor loves how easily this set makes her her wavy/curly hair look good—without any heat styling.

    Dry Shampoo
    Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Dry Shampoo
    Dare we say it: no dry shampoo on the market compares to this. Readers swear by it for keeping your hair looking clean and healthy but also making it FEEL clean—a conundrum we all struggle with.

    Scalp Treatment
    Kristin Ess Instant Exfoliating Scalp Scrub
    This scalp scrub, from our editors’ favorite budget-friendly line from Kristin Ess, removes build-up, flakes, and dry skin on the scalp, revealing healthier, cleaner hair.

    Curl Gel/Cream
    Miss Jessie’s Honey Curls Curl Enhancers
    Miss Jessie’s Honey Curls has been my go-to gel for almost two years. I used to think that my hair was too kinky for a wash-N-go, but this gel proved me wrong. I love that it not only helps give my curls definition without the crunch, but it keeps my 4-type curls hydrated for days.—Bianca

    Hairspray
    Authentic Beauty Concept Working Hairspray
    A hairspray that tames frizz, dries quickly, and doesn’t make us feel crunchy is hard to come by—until our editor found this one that does it all while being vegan, cruelty-free, and clean.

    Tool
    Gisou Curling Tool
    After struggling with curling irons forever (who hasn’t?!), our editor swears this brings her curls to life for days, leaving them volumized and damage-free.

    Leave-In Product
    Prose Hair Oil
    My beauty queen friend gifted me this gorgeous hair oil, and let me tell you, it could not have come at a better time. My hair was getting brittle from too-few salon visits (thanks, pandemic!) and frosty Midwestern temps, and this hair oil revived those strands right up. It’s customized to my exact needs and smells like a dream. Plus, it lasts forever! —Thao Thai, Executive Editor

    Body Wash
    Plant Apothecary Start Happy Body Wash
    A nice body wash was the luxury we didn’t know we’d need in 2020, but after testing this, we’ll never live without its gorgeous scent and moisturizing texture.

    Body Moisturizer
    Kiehl’s Since 1851 Crème de Corps
    This old favorite moisturizer will always be on our lists for its ability to deeply moisturize the skin without feeling sticky and heavy.

    Body Scrub
    Tree Hut Tropical Mango Shea Sugar Scrub
    With the world coming to halt drastically this year, I was able to make personal care a priority—and in comes Tree Hut’s Exfoliating Body Scrub. This body scrub has been a staple for me since the beginning of the year. It’s affordable, comes in a variety of scents and ingredients based on your needs, and it leaves my skin amazingly smooth, especially after shaving and waxing. I use this scrub at least twice a week all over, and the gentle scrub doesn’t irritate my skin at all. This is the perfect affordable body scrub for soft, smooth skin that I plan to take with me into the new year! —Blair Bedford, Contributing Editor

    Deodorant
    Kopari Coconut Deodorant
    Natural deodorant can be quite a hit or miss, so you have to sing it from the rooftops when you’ve found a good one—like our editors’ have done with this coconut deodorant from Kopari.

    Razor and Shave Cream
    Flamingo 5-Blade Razor and Foaming Shave Gel
    After years of buying the most very basic skincare products from local pharmacies, 2020 was the year I choose to invest in my skin. I’m also very much a sucker for fun packaging, so I started using new products like the Flamingo razor and foam shave gel to enhance my shower routine. I love how silky smooth they make my skin feel and both the razor blade and the foam gel have lasted a lot longer than my others have. It’s the little things, you know?—Leigh Ryan, Junior Graphic Designer

    Hand Sanitizer
    Megababe Squeaky Clean Hand Sanitizer
    I’ve been obsessed with Megababe’s products for a while now (the Thigh Rescue is a literal lifesaver—if you know, you know) but hadn’t tried their hand sanitizer until earlier this year. I found it in-stock on Megababe’s website when all other sanitizers were flying off the shelves, so I ordered a big bottle to try out. Since then, it has become my all-time favorite hand sanitizer—I’ll never go back! Unlike others, its formula includes plant-based alcohol (plus, no parabens, phthalates, or sulfates) to keep your hands feeling soft and moisturized while still killing 99.9 percent of germs. Being able to use sanitizer often without majorly drying out your hands is key, especially this year. And it smells lovely, which we all know cannot be said for every sanitizer out there. Highly recommend! —Julia Poulter, Managing Editor of The Everymom

    Hand Cream
    Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
    Hand cream stopped becoming a luxury and began its tenure as a necessity this year, and we’re loving this inexpensive one that’s ultra-mosturizing without feeling sticky on the hands.

    Nail Polish
    Olive and June Nail Polish
    Our entire team touts these nail polishes as the easiest to apply and best-looking polishes on the market. Plus, their shades are always on trend.

    Our Best New Find—the product our editor just couldn’t wait to tell the world about:

    Vitamin C Intense Night Cream

    The second the temperatures drop below 60 degrees, I get EXTREMELY dry skin. And for some reason (as if 2020 wasn’t bad enough), it has been so much worse this year. In searching for anything that might help hydrate my face, I read a few recommendations that I should incorporate a heavy night cream. So, I went to Ulta’s website, found this one, and decided to try it solely based on the glowing reviews. It not only has helped keep my skin hydrated, but the Vitamin C makes a visible difference in combatting dullness and redness. Every time I use it, my skin feels brighter! I will definitely be repurchasing.—Jessica Welsh, Editorial Assistant

    Best Product Innovation—the most genius product on the market this year: 

    Wonder Water

    L’Oreal’s Wonder Water was by far the most standout hair product I tried this year. The technology it new and innovative; lamallar water is super lightweight and is able to penetrate the hair cuticle, where heavier conditioners can’t. Literally in 10 seconds, it manages to completely smooth out your hair and leave it looking shiny and healthy, without absolutely any weigh-down. It’s also super affordable—I’m so glad L’Oreal released it before any high-end brands did, because I’m able to make it a part of every hair wash. I don’t even remember what my hair was like before this, and I notice a difference each and every time I use it.—Madeline Galassi, Associate Editor
    Read Maddie’s full review!

    Best Splurge—the product worth the $$$$: 

    Kansa Wand—Facial Massage Tool

    Face tools come and go in my routine, but using this handmade Kansa Wand always feels special. Each time I use it coupled with a facial oil, my skin glows, which can likely be attributed to the wand’s copper head. Copper is known to help promote natural collagen and elastin production. Not to mention, my jawline —where I carry much of my stress—gets an instant and much-needed release.—Bianca

    Best Budget Buy—the product we can’t believe only cost $:

    Favorite Black-Owned Brand—the brand we loved supporting this year whose products blew us away:

    UOMA Beauty

    UOMA Beauty had been on our radar ever since their Say What?! Foundation launch, but after testing the brand further, their products have become must-haves in many of our daily routines. From their brow pencil to their concealer to their lipsticks, we can’t stop raving about their formulas, their packaging, and their brand message. (Little known fact: their founder created the #PullUporShutUp movement to encourage brand owners to share the demographics of who make up their teams!)

    Favorite Clean Beauty Brand—the brand we feel good about putting on our skin:

    Tower 28 Beauty

    After interviewing the founder of Tower 28 Beauty on The Everymom, our team immediately became enamored with the brand and its cool, unique products. They’re made specifically for those with sensitive, eczemic skin, so you don’t have to worry that anything will cause flare-ups or break you out. Our favorite products are their cream blushes and bronzers and their lip glosses—as shown above.

    #1 Work-From-Home Essential—the product making working remotely bearable: 

    Bybi Beauty
    Blueberry Oil Booster

    Of all the facial oils out there, this non-toxic option is a unique go-to. It’s made of 100 percent cold-pressed blueberry seed oil, which helps defend skin against blue light damage by absorbing the light before it penetrates the skin. But that’s not all it can do: blueberry seed oil is high in antioxidants and contains ingredients like beta-carotene and omega 3,6 and 9 to fight inflammation, nourish skin, and improve overall radiance. —Josie More

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    I Tried 3 of Instagram’s Most Popular Leggings—Here Are My Thoughts

    You know that feeling when you grab your favorite pair of leggings only to put them on and notice that there are holes in the thighs? Utter disappointment doesn’t even begin to describe moments like that.I try to work out every day, and I’ve noticed that more than a few of my favorite leggings have been rubbed raw in the thigh area—every curvy girl knows what I mean here (thigh gap who?). It seemed as though my favorite leggings and my thighs were conspiring against me, so I decided it was time to order some replacements.
    For the past year, I’ve been getting ads for the same pairs of size-inclusive leggings from Girlfriend Collective, PopFit, and Fabletics. I can’t count how many times I’ve clicked through to them and talked myself out of taking the plunge—but no more! I ordered three pairs of the leggings I’m constantly seeing online to test them out once and for all.
    I’m a big girl who likes to do all kinds of workouts. I love anything from dancing to cycling to HIIT to weight lifting to yoga, but the one thing I absolutely cannot stand is a pair of leggings that can’t take the heat of a good workout. So, I really tried these brands and ranked them based on style, comfort level, fit, and full workout capability. Here’s what happened:

    Legging 1: Popfit Harlow Legging

    I’ve had my eye on these for a while because they have a crazy entry offer where you get your first pair of leggings free. Honestly, it sounded too good to be true, so I had to investigate. When I opened the package, I can’t lie, I was a bit skeptical. The material felt thinner than what I was used to, and I couldn’t imagine how the leggings would actually look on me (the patterns on the site were a bit outside of my comfort zone). But then I tried them on and I was pleasantly surprised. I loved the way that the leggings offered some light compression in the tummy area, accentuated my waist, and bonus: they have pockets!
    I did two workouts in these leggings: jump rope and cycling. They’re super high waisted, so I didn’t have to pause in the middle of my workout to adjust them or keep them from falling down. The material was pretty stretchy, so there wasn’t too much resistance against my movements or hesitation for fear of ripping them.
    I’d recommend these leggings for those who enjoy HIIT workouts and activities with a lot of fast-paced movements. I would pass on them for those who need a maximum mobility for activities such as yoga, pilates, and barre.

    Sizing tip: These leggings run a bit large, so I’d recommend sizing down based on your measurements.

    Legging 2: Fabletics Maya High-Waisted Capri

    The next leggings I tried were that of Kate Hudson’s Activewear line, Fabletics. If I had to describe these leggings in three words, I’d say: cute, high-quality, and again, pockets.
    In comparison to the PopFit leggings, these were definitely more comfortable. I really appreciated the thickness of the waistband and softness of the material, although I did have to do the Beyoncé jump to get them over all of my assets. The pockets weren’t as deep or wide as the PopFit leggings, but they’re made with a sheer material which provided a cute contrast to the material of the actual leggings. They also weren’t as high waisted, which would have been a major bonus for me because it helps to create that hourglass shape on my body.
    I went hiking in a rocky terrain in these leggings. As I brushed up against bushes and branches, I was immensely thankful for the thick material between me and the more unforgiving aspects of nature. Also, as I climbed, I was able to really assess the mobility of the material and was extremely pleased. Plus, they’re super sweatproof, so you can say goodbye to awkward sweat stains. On the con side, I did have to stop and pull these leggings up a few times, and I don’t think going down a size would be possible for me. 
    I’d recommend these leggings for more stationary activities like: weight-lifting, yoga, biking, and core workouts.

    Sizing tip: These leggings fit pretty true to size, so I’d recommend sizing based on your measurements.

    Legging 3: Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Legging

    So, do all leggings have pockets now? I’m not complaining, I’m exclaiming! Honestly, I don’t think I can wear leggings without pockets after this experience. 
    These were the leggings I was the most excited to try. They have such an amazing variety of models and representation in their branding. They arrived in the cutest packaging and came with an adorable recyclable pouch. Their site calls these particular leggings, “squat-proof, ultra high-rise, compressive leggings,” and I wanted to find out if these claims held up.
    The first time I pulled these on, I could tell that they were much more structured than the other pairs I tried. The compression was, comparatively, a lot lighter, and the high-rise didn’t rise as high as I may have hoped.  
    I went for a five mile walk in these and followed it with a quick yoga session. I found them to be extremely moisture-wicking, and the pockets had a really secure feel—which would be great for my keys, wallet, or phone. I found myself having to pull them up a lot during my walk, and I think it’s because my phone started to weigh them down. 
    These are the leggings I’d go to for my athleisure ‘fits. I’ll probably double back to the site for the matching top so I can wear this on work-from-home days or to run errands. They’re the perfect leggings for a chill Saturday, and come in a ton of cute colors to spice up your wardrobe with.

    Sizing tip: The next time I order from Girlfriend Collective I think I’ll try a smaller size. This time I got a XXL, and I think an XL might have given me that extra compression I needed. (Plus, I’m kind of short, so these felt a bit too long for me.) More

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    A Ranking of Our Editors’ Favorite Glossier Products

    Everyone has a brand they’re incredibly loyal to. For us, it’s Glossier. Their products are innovative, budget-friendly, and high-quality to boot. Between our editors, we’ve tried a mountain of their products from skincare to makeup to body care. Heck, we’re even fond of their GlossiWEAR clothing. So, what do we think about all the products we’ve tried? We sat down to rank our Glossier purchases, of course.Ranking your beauty products is honestly an impossible task. How am I supposed to say if this cleanser is better than this mascara which is better than a lip gloss? It’s just apples to oranges, people. But we can tell you exactly what’s worth your money and what you should remove from your cart immediately. Note that beauty is really subjective, so while there were some products that were a favorite for one editor, another editor hated it. Based on our descriptions, you should be able to decide if a product will be your new best friend or not. Here’s what we’d recommend, what was so-so, and what we’d skip!
    This certainly doesn’t include every single product in Glossier’s inventory, so if something is missing, it just means we need to add it to one of our next orders! 

    Our Editors’ Absolute Favorites:

    6 shades available
    Cloud Paint

    Glossier makes a few of my favorite skincare and beauty items, but the Cloud Paint really impressed me. Usually, when I hear that everyone likes a product, I’m skeptical about the hype. However, the Haze Cloud Paint is now the only blush I use because it’s so natural and hydrating. The hype is valid.- Bianca Lambert, Contributing Editor
    Every editor who’s tried this ranked these at least top three, so you know there’s gotta be something to the hype!

    4 shades available
    Boy Brow

    This product was widely loved by the entirety of our team (almost everyone mentioned it as a top product!)—you can’t go wrong with this cult-favorite brow product.

    Futuredew

    I’ve only tried FutureDew (I need to try out more Glossier products ASAP)! However, I love to use FutureDew as a makeup primer for an all-day glow. It’s the perfect extra touch to make my skin glowy and give me a great base for makeup. I also wear it on no-makeup days if I just want a little extra something! I love that it’s not too heavy or sticky.- Jessica Welsh, Editorial Assistant

    8 flavors available
    Balm Dotcom

    As someone with consistently dry lips, a love for all things in chic packaging, and the unfortunate habit of losing things often, you’d think I would not be a prime candidate for fancy lip balm. Well, you’d think wrong! I absolutely love balm dot com and carry them around with me everywhere I go (which, these days, is really just back and forth between my bed and my desk). It’s SUPER hydrating, the tubes are cute as heck, and the flavors/tints are light but noticeable. I’m a lifelong fan.- Abigail Yonker, Social Media Editor
    Basically our entire team raves about this lip balm. Bianca said she loves to use it on her cuticles and elbows too!

    You Perfume

    This is, by far, my favorite scent of all-time, and it’s around half the price of other really popular perfumes. It does really make you smell like yourself but better, and it’s the only perfume I’ve ever gone through multiple bottles of.
    – Madeline Galassi, Associate Editor
    Kelly and Beth also raved about this perfume! The scent is so distinguishable in the best way, and the price is really competitive for a high-end perfume.

    6 colors available
    Generation G Lipstick

    OK—so I’ve definitely heard mixed reviews on this one, as with the older packaging, people didn’t love how it was quite flimsy and how the formula turned out. I can only speak for the newer packaging version of these when I say that I freaking love this product. For a bit of background, I have always had a timid relationship with lip colors, and don’t like the look that most lipsticks and tinted balms I’ve tried give off. I wanted a buildable, sheer formula with a soft matte finish that faded evenly and subtly as the day went on, and for that reason, Gen G is perfect. Bonus: the lychee rose scent is fab, and none of the colors I’ve worn have come off on a mask so far!- Shriya Khanna, Editorial Intern
    Beth loves these too for a natural lip look!

    12 shades available
    Stretch Concealer

    I’ve struggled with acne for half my life—but now that my derm and I have finally gotten it under control, I’m feeling more prepared to ditch heavy makeup and go for lighter coverage. I first used the stretch concealer while my skin was at some of its worst—so you can rest assured that it does provide hydrating (read: non-cakey) coverage for breakouts and scarring—but when used to brighten up dark circles, it really shines. It’s light, breathable, and looks very natural.- Abigail Yonker, Social Media Editor

    3 shades available
    Haloscope Highlighter

    I’ve been using Haloscope for years! I tend to go for a more natural makeup look for day-to-day, and this highlighter gives the exact look that I want. I’m obsessed with the warm, dewy glow that it gives me. I’m no makeup guru, so I also appreciate how easy it is to use. I just slide it on the top of my cheekbones and blend it in with my finger. It’s also a great product for the summer when it’s hot and I don’t want a lot of heavy products on my face!- Keely Geist, The Everymom Social Media Editor

    Pro Tip Liquid Eyeliner

    A good, solid black eyeliner is without a doubt my #1 makeup must-haves (especially when all you can see is my eye makeup these days!). A liquid liner has to have three attributes for me to deem it worthy of repurchasing: it has to be an easy-to-use pen (versus the brush-and-dip-type deal); it should dry fast and be smudge-proof; it should be free of any strange fragrance (because trust me, I’ve met my fair share of smelly liners that just end up irritating my eyes). This baby passed the test with flying colors.- Shriya Khanna, Editorial Intern

    Lash Slick Mascara

    This is hands down my favorite everyday mascara! I always buy a new one before I finish my current one so I never run out. There are a few things I never leave the house without on my face, and this is definitely one of them. I love how naturally long it makes my lashes look without getting all clumpy and gross. I’ve even had people ask if I had on extensions while wearing Lask Slick, so my suggestion to you is to save yourself a lot of money and try this instead.- Keely Geist, The Everymom Social Media Editor
    Josie also loves this mascara for lengthening her lashes to the extreme—this picture! is enough explanation! She says it’s the only mascara she owns.

    3 shades available
    Lip Gloss

    Lipgloss is one of my favorite makeup products, especially now that no one but me ever really sees my lips. I have both the clear gloss and the cherry red, and I love them both the same. They’re really hydrating and comfortable to wear all day long with whatever look I create, whether it’s a smokey eye or no makeup.- Beth Gillette, Associate Editor
    However, Shriya said she thought it was a little too sticky, so if you’re sensitive to lip gloss formulas, this might be a skip for you.

    6 shades available
    Lidstar Glistening Eye Glow

    My makeup vice of choice has always been lipstick and I usually skip the big palettes of eyeshadows due to inevitably only using a single shade. But I fell hook, line, and sinker for the simplicity of Lidstar and the slick, matte-yet-gloss consistency.
    I love that it’s foolproof to use (no need to mess with your crease and multiple shades) and you can just swipe, tap, and go. I have the shades Cub and Moon, which are both are perfect for that slightest bit of shimmer. Moon is by far my favorite—it’s so barely there it’s almost just a reflection. As if you’re dancing on a patio with a handsome stranger, you close your eyes for the barest moment, the moonlight kissing your face. And they think, “Wow, she is resplendent.” And you open your eyes, look to the camera, wink and say, “Thank you, Lidstar!” This fantasy brought to you by Lidstar.- Kelly Etz, Online Course Director and Senior Graphic Designer

    The So-Sos:

    14 shades available
    Colorslide Technogel Eyeliner Pencil

    I snagged the mustard shade of this liner the day Glossier released their “Play” makeup line, and it’s been a favorite liner of mine ever since. It’s really smooth and glides on with ease, and I absolutely love the color options. I don’t usually pay this much for an eye pencil (these from NYX are so good and SO cheap!), but these come in so many unique shades I’ve never seen anywhere else. They’re also really pigmented, so I use mine for fun winged liner, blended as a shadow on the lid, on the lower lashline, or for a pop of color in the inner corner. Writing this right now is reminding me that I need to order more shades ASAP! This gorgeous burgundy is my fall dream.- Beth Gillette, Associate Editor

    Body Hero Oil Body Wash

    Back when we still went to weddings, I was attending one with our very own Editorial Director, Allyson. I remember arriving, hugging her, then immediately accusing her of being a witch because her skin was SO SOFT. When she attributed it to Glossier’s Body Hero products, I bought them the literal next day because I don’t waste time. I like both of the products just fine; I think the oil wash had a nice lather in the shower and the Daily Perfecting Cream blended in to my skin pretty well. However that was the first and last time I bought these products because THE SCENT.
    What to say about this smell? It felt like living inside a bottle of Tom Ford’s Neroli Portofino without all the interest and decadence. Truly just a straight hit of neroli that was so overpowering at one point I had to open the shower curtain to try and get a cross breeze going. Scents are incredibly personal (I’m a huge fan of the polarizing Ouai shampoo smell and I love a good hint of gasoline) so I’d recommend getting a sample of these before committing because you might love it. But if you’re not into fragrance or strong smells, steer clear, my friends. Just a hot tip from me to you.- Kelly Etz, Online Course Director and Senior Graphic Designer

    3 shades available
    Brow Flick Liquid Eyebrow Pen

    So, here it is: I really do love this product, but the shade range is absolute garbage. I got the lightest shade because I was worried that the brown would be too dark on my eyebrows. Lo and behold: the “blonde” shade is way too light that it barely looks like anything on my skin. But I absolutely love the result when I can build the color up. It’s the most natural-looking brow ever, as if I have real hairs in all the sparse places. I would rate this so much higher if the shades were better.- Beth Gillette, Associate Editor

    Priming Moisturizer

    On my first impression of this stuff years ago, I loved how rich and creamy this priming moisturizer was! It served as a light, moisturizing base for makeup, but once it ran out, I again opted for more affordable brands (like the CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion and The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA which have been saviors for my super dry skin).- Ashley Selleke, Editorial Assistant
    I’ve tried the Priming Moisturizer Rich as well, and would say it is so-so. I much-preferred the consistency of the original Priming Moisturizer because it was lightweight, whereas the Rich formula didn’t make me feel any more hydrated, just heavier on the skin.- Beth Gillette, Associate Editor

    4 shades available
    Niteshine Highlighter

    If you’re between Glossier’s two highlighters, I’d go with Haloscope instead unless you really love a metallic highlight. This one is pretty, but it does dry down to a more matte finish, which is typically the opposite of what I’m going for with my highlighter. I already spent money on it, so to use it up I like to put it underneath my foundation or I’ll use a clear face gloss on top (like Haloscope in Quartz) to make it dewier. This product isn’t bad, and maybe you’ll absolutely fall in love with it if you have really oily skin, but it definitely wasn’t for me.- Beth Gillette, Associate Editor

    Skips:

    Super Glow Vitamin C Serum

    This Vitamin C serum was the first serum I ever purchased so I’m quite nostalgic about it. I had heard that vitamin C serum was good for anti-aging and improving the skin’s radiance so it wasn’t a difficult choice when I decided to give it a go! The serum worked in helping to brighten my complexion and added some hydration to my face, but I simply didn’t replace it because I started using The Ordinary Vitamin C Suspension which boasted a better price.- Ashley Selleke, Editorial Assistant

    Solution Exfoliating Skin Perfector

    I got this right when it came out and had such high hopes. I had scoured Reddit and YouTube, seeing basically all positive reviews. So when I used up a whole bottle and noticed not a single difference in my skin, I was pretty disappointed. It didn’t hurt my skin at all, and I’m sure it was doing some micro-effects I couldn’t notice, but I experienced zero physical differences, which made the $24 price tag just not worth it to me.- Beth Gillette, Associate Editor

    Bubblewrap Eye + Lip Cream

    Back in January when I was visiting London, they just happened to have the biggest, most grandiose Glossier pop-up set up in the heart of Covent Garden. I didn’t need anything, per se, but I was feeling festive and felt compelled to purchase something that I could qualify as “practical enough.” With it being the coldest month of the year and my lips looking like I had recently risen from the dead, I asked about the best products to hydrate lips and I was recommended Bubblewrap, which doubles both as eye and lip cream. I only utilized it on my lips a few times during that trip, and instead of the “slightly soft tingle” I was promised, it felt more like I had badly sunburned my entire mouth, with a weird chalky essence to top it off. Sadly, I had to plod back into fancy London Glossier to return this.- Shriya Khanna, Editorial Intern More

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    An Expert Evaluated My Skincare Routine—This Is the Major Step That I Was Missing

    As a beauty writer by trade, I try a lot of skincare. My bathroom is stocked with too many cleansers to count, enough masks to last me a lifetime, and creams that would entice even the strictest of skincare followers. The last thing I need to add to my routine is more of the same-old, same-old; I want products that are nothing like what I’m already using. All this to say, something has to be really innovative and unique to catch my attention right now.Enter: Exuviance. I’ve seen this brand roaming Ulta for years, but their recent rebrand (so shelfie-worthy) and a whole host of intriguing products drew me to them as of late. And after hopping on a call to receive a customized skincare routine from one of their in-house experts, I’m reporting back on why the experience was so formative, their most enticing products, and how they’ve made their way into my (quite extensive, TBH) routine.

    A personalized skincare consultation was the step I never knew I needed.
    Hopping on a call to go over my skincare routine and what I want to change about my skin was beyond exciting. I could talk about my flaws for hours, and lately, clogged pores on my nose and chin have been the #1 problem in my life. After finally listening to my dermatologist for a full eight months, my cystic acne is basically at bay (other than some serious maskne). But my pores are as clogged as ever, to the point that getting a facial a month ago, the esthetician literally said, “Is your nose always like this?” I shuddered in shame and am terrified to return.
    I relayed this information to David, the amazing Exuviance Product Expert that I worked with on my routine, and right then and there, he came up with an ideal routine tailored to me, including my beloved tretinoin gel that helps me keep my acne in control. He created a full morning and night routine, complete with once and twice-a-week chemical exfoliation to even out my skin tone, unclog pores, and keep my skin bright and clear. Exuviance focuses on a routine that includes products that rejuvenate the skin (such as their peels that I was so excited to try), followed by preventative anti-aging steps, namely sunscreen. These two components are essential for healthy, glowy skin. 

    Source: @exuviance

    Then, David went in-depth on each of the products, the best tips and tricks to using them, and the order in which I should apply them every day. He gave me different tricks to getting the most out of the products, like using their famous Radiance Serum as a spot treatment, which felt so tailored to my skincare needs and the products I was using. I basically had a skincare expert at the ready to answer any questions and give me recommendations based on what I needed, which even as a beauty writer, I’ve never done before! He even referred to himself as my “beauty lifeline,” which is all I could ever ask for.

    Whether beauty products are your hobby or you just don’t want to invest in a whole routine from one brand, it might not always be feasible to entirely morph your regimen to be one brand only. Most of us like variety and giving new products a try here and there. So one of the best parts of my experience talking to David was that he said that once I’d tried the products he suggested, we could come back together and develop a long-time routine based on what I liked and the rest of the products in my routine from other brands. I’m always going to try new things, and he sensed that was the case, which made the experience even better. 
    Once this was over, David and I said our goodbyes, and he wrote up everything I’d need to know and sent it to my email so I wouldn’t forget any steps or tips he gave (but of course, I took extensive notes on our call). The products arrived a few days later, and I got started testing. 

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    Source: @exuviance

    Trying the Routine
    Before: 

    I obviously started this out with a full skincare routine in motion, but David recommended I pause all of my other products to see how my skin responded to this new routine. I started right after Thanksgiving, so I was dealing with some pretty tough breakouts, especially along my jawline from stress, hormones, and wearing my mask. Basically, these products had a pretty tough job to start with! 
    The two products I focused on the most were their most innovative products: the Performance Peel AP25 and the Pure Retinol Correcting Peel. I’ve tried skincare peels before, but nothing like these. The Performance Peel AP25 is one of the hero products in the line and contains a 25% blend of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Polyhydroxy Acid (PHA) and comes in a two-step form. I used this product on Sunday and Thursday nights, and I woke up with the glowiest skin I’ve had in a long time. I immediately noticed that my acne scars looked better than the night before, and I had much less redness than I do with other peels I’ve tried. The neutralizer really helps to calm the skin and keep it hydrated and soft even after you’ve used such a high concentration of acid. 

    The Pure Retinol Correcting Peel is one of the most genius products I’ve tried, maybe ever.
    It is so unique, and I’ve never seen something like it on the market. We all know the magic of retinol—it’s amazing for anti-aging, skin resurfacing, and reducing acne. This product, however, offers it in the form of a weekly peel pad, which I used on Wednesdays (David recommended focusing on my peels on Self-Care Sunday and Wine Wednesday, which I loved but was also easy to remember!). It’s formulated with a high-strength level of 0.3% pure retinol, the highest concentration retinol you can find without seeing a dermatologist, which is why it’s best used only once a week. Because it’s such a high amount, I did notice my skin peeling a bit the next day, but it was nothing a nice face wash and my daily exfoliating SkinRise Morning Glow pad couldn’t fix. I already use a medium-dose Retin-A a few times a week for my acne, so this was a great addition to my routine to bump it up once a week. 
    Because I was using so many acids, I also really focused on moisturizing and protecting my skin. The Daily Corrector SPF 30 is my ideal daily sunscreen: it’s moisturizing enough for my combo skin that I didn’t need to use a moisturizer before, it sunk in easily without a white cast, and it kept my skin feeling moisturized all day long. SPF is essential for protecting against early signs of aging caused by the sun as well, so I love how easy this product is to add to my daily routine. Exuviance’s line is full of active ingredients that really make an impact on your skin, but that means you have to be extra diligent about preventing sun damage during the day, and this makes remembering to apply every day super easy. 

    The Glow After My Night Routine 😍

    After trying the routine, my skin looks significantly glowier, and I feel so much more confident in the texture of my skin. I notice a huge change in how my skin feels to the touch; it feels soft and supple, and I definitely have these products to thank for that. However, like I said, I love trying beauty products, so my next plan of action is working with David to come up with a way to incorporate the products I loved into my routine while adding back in some of my other favorites. 

    The Products I Loved and Will Buy Over and Over Again

    Performance Peel AP25

    For all the reasons I mentioned above, this is a new must-have. It’s the first peel I’ve ever tried that seems to do something without seriously irritating my skin and causing redness. I’ll never go back to those now that I’ve tried this! After only a few weeks, my skin feels the softest and looks the clearest it has in a loooong time.

    Pure Retinol Correcting Peel

    This was the product I was most excited to try, and it didn’t disappoint. I like that you only use it once a week at night, but I noticed a difference just after using it twice. This comes with enough for six weeks, so I can’t wait to see how my skin texture and tone improves.

    Obviously, I am wearing makeup in this picture, but I was shook at how good my skin looked. I’m wearing quite a matte foundation with a lot of powder, but you can’t see any dry patches or bumps on my face really at all, except for a few acne spots that were going away. My skin looks and feels so smooth, and I’m thanking the two peels for this!

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    SkinRise Morning Glow Gentle Exfoliator

    The first time I tried this I knew I had to keep using it. This product is cooling and relaxing to apply, but it makes my skin look glowy, hydrated, and supple, which I especially love in the mornings. I also love using it after Ive used the peels because it exfoliates away any dead or flaking skin. I never want to be without this product in my routine—ever.

    Radiance Serum

    David explained that this is their “TikTok Hero Product” after it went viral on TikTok when a makeup artist shared it as part of her routine. I personally love the glow it gives me.

    Daily Corrector with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35

    A good SPF is hard to come by. They can be greasy, cause a white cast all over your face, and make your makeup melt away in just a few hours if they’re not made right. I was so glad that this was made for oily and acne-prone skin in mind, but I was worried it would dry down to a matte finish; oh, the contrary! It gives the most gorgeous glow to my skin and makes whatever makeup I’m wearing look 10 times better. I almost want to keep using this as a primer!

    All-Out Revitalizing Eye Mask

    Wearing these eye masks in the morning while I’m sipping my coffee before work is a little blissful moment a few days a week, something I usually would only save for the evenings. But I love how these make my under eyes look plump and bright, even after I’ve gotten little-to-no sleep the night before.

    Want to win your own Exuviance consultation and skincare regimen? Leave a comment below sharing your favorite way to practice self-care and you’ll be entered to win.

    Two winners will be chosen. Giveaway ends January 3, 2021 at 11:59 PM ET. Click here for the complete list of rules.

    This post is sponsored by Exuviance, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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    The Two Products I Swear by to Calm My Hyperpigmentation and Acne Scars

    Raise your hand if you think that acne scars and dark spots—AKA hyperpigmentation—are harder to treat than that pesky pimple. Since my high school years, I’ve read article after article that touted the perfect acne scar and dark spot treatments (that would accommodate my sensitive skin, of course). I made sure to make room in my budget for what I hoped would be the holy grail to treating my scars and dark spots, but they still claimed residence on my skin. Beginning in mid-March of this year, another pesky, bright-red acne scar developed under my chin after a several week-long battle with an unwanted pimple. I used the extra time at home to experiment with new products, such as a niacinamide serum and retinol, to treat my newfound acne scar. Instead of fading the scar, these products made matters worse. Red splotches developed all over my cheeks, which I took as a sign to stop experimenting. 

    The cream that’s like magic
    Once June rolled around, I decided to find new solutions to treat the then three month-old acne scar, so I reached for a sample I had of Dr. Jart+’s Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment. This color-correcting cream is seriously magic thanks to its hero ingredient, centella asiatica, an active ingredient anecdotally known for its calming properties. While it didn’t make the scar disappear, it hid the redness temporarily. Before applying my concealer, I swept this green-tinted cream on my red scar, ensuring that the color corrector blended seamlessly into my skin. The cream can also be applied to red spots and dark spots solo. I personally love to swipe a bit of this cream on my problem spots as the last step of my nighttime skin care routine. By morning, the spots are not as red as they were the day before, but this effect is only temporary. If you’re a tosser and turner though, I would not recommend putting this cream on at night as it can turn your pillow green.
    One tub of this cream can last a long time. At $18 a tub, it’s a great value, given that it will last for several months. I graduated from my sample to a 0.5 ounce tub in August, and I’m not even close to being empty. Since discovering this scar-covering cream, I regularly use it as a base for my makeup or as a nighttime spot treatment. Now, my worries about my scars showing are a thing of the past.

    The scar-fading serum of my dreams
    Besides the color-correcting cream being the closest thing I’ve found to magic, it wasn’t until I got my hands on Topicals’ Faded gel serum in August that my under-the-chin acne scar went away for good. The Topicals line was developed by founders who had skin considered less than perfect according to what was shown in movies and on TV, so I had a good feeling that Faded would be the remedy for all my scars and dark spots. After I consistently applied the gel on my face for two nights, it was gone! Even after the scar went away, I made sure to apply the gel at the recommended rate of 2-3 times a week. However, my skin did develop some pimples on my forehead and cheeks. These were expected, given that the packaging warned of skin purging, which is a result of irritation caused by the acids in the serum’s formula. I do think that $36 for this serum is relatively pricey, but every penny is worth it. Acne scars can take weeks or months to fade away, but in my experience, this serum got to the heart of the problem in a matter of days. Just like the color correcting cream, this serum can last for months, making the investment all the more worth your buck. 

    Getting rid of the scars acne makes is far more challenging than popping that pimple. However, with Dr. Jart+’s Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment and Topicals’ Faded serum, I feel in control of my skin and am empowered with the confidence that I can achieve a clear, glowing complexion.  More

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    November Empties: Honest Thoughts on The Products Our Team Finished This Month

    We’re big fans of the YouTube Beauty Community here at The Everygirl. We’re constantly talking about our favorite creators, their best looks, and buying pretty much everything they recommend. The YouTube beauty world is honestly what we have to thank for some of the biggest trends in beauty—we’d never be baking our undereyes or curling our hair with straighteners or using men’s post-shave balm as a primer if it weren’t for the beauty YouTubers who taught us how. Alongside the various techniques YouTube has taught us, the phenomenon of the ever-so-popular “empties video” has truly taken over our subscription feeds. Every beauty YouTuber has made an empties video (if not five), and everyone who even knows just a glimpse of beauty YouTube has seen one. The concept is simple: show everyone what’s in your trash and talk about if you loved it, if you’ll buy it again, and how long it took you to use up. 
    So being the beauty-lovers we are at TEG HQ, we decided to create our own empties series. Every month, all of our editors will share a few of our own empties—from skin, hair, and makeup products to candles and vitamins and home items—and give our unfiltered review on each of the products. Some of them we’ll love and need to repurchase ASAP … and some we’ll celebrate finally finishing them up. If you’ve ever wondered what our absolute favorites (and not-so-favorites) are, this is the right place to be. It’s finally time for our trash cans to shine!

    The Fix Emergency Eye Mask

    The Emergency Eye Mask is one of my hero products that I can’t live without (obviously, because I went through this one so quickly). As someone that has under-eye bags and dark circles, this product gets me emotional because of how much it has transformed my life (dramatic, I know, but the people with bad under-eye bags will get me). Loaded with vitamins to hydrate, cucumber juice to depuff, and caffeine to calm swelling and brighten, the formula is thick enough to be used as a 10-minute mask that can be washed off, but TBH, I haven’t washed it off once (it’s too good!). Instead, I dab it on at night as an eye cream or whenever the eye area needs a little extra TLC (like when I’m hungover or traveling). Yes, I will be buying again and have already ordered my next stash because I can’t go too long without it.

    EQUILIBRIA
    Daily Treatment Oil

    TBH, I am already on my second bottle of this luxurious treatment oil because it’s that good. Equilibria is always our go-to for CBD products, but I never knew I needed a CBD body oil until I tried this. Along with 500mg of full-spectrum CBD, the Daily Treatment Oil contains powerful oils like Sweet Almond, Litsea, and Olive Squalene to heal a common range of skin issues. The formula helps everything from sun damage to pore size, and I feel a major difference in my skin when I pat it on my face and body before bed. However, the greatest testament to its healing powers is what happened with my boyfriend. He got a painful rash on his hands (sorry for the TMI) from an allergy to our dog’s saliva (he’s still in the puppy-biting-everything phase. The dog, not the boyfriend), and nothing was helping. I put on a little of this oil, and within a few hours, the rash was completely healed. If that’s not miraculous, I don’t know what is! *Orders in bulk*
    Use code theeverygirl for 20% off your first order!

    Summer Fridays
    Overtime Mask

    It’s finally happened: the go-to exfoliating mask that has been by my side for almost two years has hit its last leg. This Instagram-favorite product is one of the few masks that I actually notice an immediate difference in brightness and complexion. It has therefore become my go-to “weekend mask,” like a treat to immediately make my skin better when the week’s over (because you know you want to look your best on a Saturday). It uses vitamin-packed pumpkin and exfoliating apricot seed powder to slough away dead skin cells and boost glow for the most illuminating skin ever (and also smells absolutely delicious). The best part? I have used it weekly for a couple of years, and it’s lasted me until now. You only need a little to make a huge impact, and isn’t that what we all want more of with our skincare?

    Sleepy Body Lotion

    I am someone who takes good care of the skin on my face, but neglect the rest of my body fully. I hate needing to put lotion on and feeling sticky and waiting for it to soak in and the entire process of it, but this has converted me into being a lotion lover. I’ve been putting this on every night before bed for two years now, and it’s become the most amazing little ritual for my nights. It’s the perfect lavender scent—it isn’t too strong or overpowering—and to me it’s the equivalent of diffusing an essential oil before bed. It also makes my skin so hydrated and I can put it on a minute before I get into my bed without fearing it getting everywhere because it sinks into your skin so quickly. This is an always repurchase in the biggest size for me, and would also make an amazing gift for anyone this season.

     

    Hydration Shampoo

    I put my hair through a lot (frequent color appointments, heat styling, scrappy ponytails) so I like treating it to fancy shampoos and conditioners that I slather on in the shower while whispering affirmations and praise. I’ve been hearing amazing things about this brand for years so when I ran out of my old shampoo and conditioner, I traded up. I’ll absolutely be repurchasing because these both lasted me a good three months and I’ve definitely noticed that my hair feels silkier straight out of the shower and there’s less shedding overall. Win, win.

    Rosemary Soy Candle

    Our Social Media Editor, Abigail, recommended this candle to me after I visited her apartment a few months back and was like “what is this heavenly smell?!” It’s called “Rosemary” but maybe I just don’t know what rosemary smells like, because it’s more of a hiking-outdoors-with-a-sexy-lumberjack scent. I burn it every chance I get, and when it runs out, I’m always bummed. Constant repurchase.

     

    Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Masque

    I received the Mielle Rosemary Mint collection of products as a birthday gift and stashed it in my bathroom closet for almost two months before giving it a try (I’m very picky about the products I use on my hair). After discovering that I had used all of my favorite conditioner, I decided to pull out the Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Hair Masque on wash day. This hair masque acts like a conditioner and deep treatment all-in-one; it was soft enough to detangle my curls with and after washing it out, it didn’t leave behind any residue or build-up. The creamy masque smells amazing too, and contains certified organic products like ginger root oil, shea butter, honey, and coconut oil to help plump up dry curls. Let’s just say that this product is no longer in the back of my closet anymore!

     

    Kristen Ess
    The One Signature Shampoo

    I’ve never really been able to understand what kind of shampoo I should be using. Do I splurge and buy one of the uber-expensive ones that is supposed to be a miracle worker? Do I stick with something I can grab for $5 at any drugstore? There are so many types and brands out there, and it has always been overwhelming to me. When I started using this Kristin Ess one, however, I felt like I finally found a happy medium between high-end salon shampoo and drugstore shampoo. It leaves my hair feeling super soft and clean, and it smells great too.

    TheraBreath
    Healthy Gums Oral Rinse

    This might seem weird and random, but I really love this mouthwash and I think people need to know about it. I’ve always had pretty sensitive gums, and this is the only thing that keeps them healthy and not irritated. I’ve been using it since about April or May, and have consistently seen improvements in my gums. Also, the mint taste is not overwhelming, there is no burning sensation, and it is made from more natural ingredients than traditional mouthwash, so it is a much more gentle option that still gets the job done.

     

    Baies/Berries Candle

    You’ve likely seen this candle in the homes of the rich and famous—and while I’m neither, I did get this candle as a gift and subsequently pretended to be. While massively overpriced, this candle is indeed my favorite home scent I’ve ever experienced. I can’t afford to burn it on any random Tuesday, but I’ve spent the last year (I received it last Christmas) burning it for special occasions (even when the occasion is “I need to feel happy!”). It’s expensive, so I can’t recommend it for a casual purchase—but it’s a great gift to give to yourself or a loved one. I repurchased, and I plan (and hope!) to make it last as long as this one did. (In the meantime, I’m going to clean this one out and use it as storage in my bathroom!) The scent is crisp, clean, and matches well with any season.

    TULA Skincare
    Blurring & Moisturizing Primer

    If you’re looking for one single beauty product to brighten you up for Zoom calls, my vote is for this one. I was on the market for a product that would calm redness and add a bit of glow without a full face of makeup, and this one exceeded my expectations. I thought Tula seemed gimmicky when I first heard of it, but this is the most impressed I’ve ever been with a primer. I wear it alone for Monday Zoom calls or running errands (it’s just a light cover that matches your skin and adds a little glow without too much shine), or I layer it under foundation if I’m looking for fuller coverage. The one downside: You can see on my bottle that it’s stained—that’s because I would apply it with my fingers and then it stained anything I touched. Annoying, but worth it.

     

    Fenty Beauty
    Full Frontal Volume, Lift & Curl Mascara

    I kept this mascara for far too long, but it’s because I refused to give it up because I love it so much. It’s the ideal everyday mascara for me: it keeps my lashes curled, adds volume, and makes them look longer. It’s the solid in-between of a separating, “no makeup” makeup look and a dramatic, “it looks like I’m wearing falsies” look, which is exactly what I go for on a daily basis. It doesn’t flake or smudge or do any of the weird things we usually hate about mascaras. I haven’t repurchased yet, but it’s on my list after I finish up another mascara (I currently have a collection of mascaras that should suffice a normal person like a full lifetime).

    Urban Decay
    Perversion Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

    I don’t wear liquid liner all the time, but when I do, I want something that doesn’t budge all. day. long. Like, I want to be able to wipe my eyes and it doesn’t move. This liner does exactly that. I had it for over a year, and I loved the formula. However, after enough time, the brush tip got so deformed that applying it became impossible. I switched to this one from NYX to try something on a budget, and holy bananas, this is the same, if not better, for a quarter of the price and hasn’t done that weird brush thing yet. I am actually not that sad to say goodbye to this now!

    Pure One Step Camellia Oil Cleanser

    I have been thinking about what I’d say about this product in empties for a few weeks. It’s hard, because I really loved it, but I don’t plan to repurchase. Here’s the deal: this is a gorgeous cleansing oil that feels so luxurious and glamorous when you use it. It has a divine scent, a wonderful texture, and looks great on my bathroom shelf. However, for as luxurious as it feels, I’m sure I could find an equally-luxurious product out there that I like more for the same price. There’s nothing wrong with this at all, but for $48, it just doesn’t blow me away. I would still recommend this because it does everything I could ever ask, but I’m on the hunt for something else instead of buying it again.

    Conceal & Perfect Longwear Concealer

    This is, without competition, my favorite concealer at the drugstore and in my top three favorite concealers ever. It is truly the best formula for all skin types. When my skin is bone-dry, I love that this really covers dark circles and redness without looking cakey or dehydrated. But when my skin is oily, I love the semi-matte finish that stays on all day and soaks up my oils. It covers dark circles, blemishes, dry patches, scars, broken capillaries, and more flawlessly. I used this all summer to spot-conceal my entire face instead of foundation, and sometimes, it looked even better than when I wore a full face of foundation. I could rave about this concealer endlessly—if you’re in the market for a concealer (or are just easily convinced—I mean, it’s under $7, y’all), try this next.

     

    Want more empties? Check out the previous months below! More

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    The Matching Set I’m Living In

    Prior to 2020, my loungewear game was truly and utterly embarrassing. When I got home every day stripped off my work clothes, I’d change into a five-year-old sorority sweatshirt, and even worse, a pair of sweats from some high school sports team. If I was going to spend my money on clothes, it was going to be something I could wear out for the world to see—who cared what I wore when I was at home?Obviously, spending the entirety of 2020 confined to my home changed my mentality on that. After buying a couple of new pairs of sweats and realizing how much better I felt in cute loungewear, I made it a priority to buy a few things I could work in comfortably, but that still made me feel put-together. It didn’t matter if I was the only one on earth who would ever see them, it made all the difference in how I felt throughout the day.
    Pretty quickly, I learned that the loungewear I gravitated toward the most–like the rest of the world—was matching sets. They feel like chic and calculated, and I loved how I could throw on a jacket over and run any errands I needed to—they felt like a look, rather than something I should just be sleeping in.
    My phone and computer also learned quickly that that’s what I was into, and gave me about a billion ads for matching sets throughout the past few months. Most of them I could resist—until a couple of weeks ago, when I kept getting an ad for this one.

    I couldn’t get the image of myself sitting on the couch next to my Christmas tree working away in this set out of my head. It was perfect: the colors, the ribbed details—frankly, I had a feeling it would be the set of my dreams, and to no one’s surprise, I was right.
    When it arrived, I couldn’t believe how high-quality it felt—the material it’s made out of is thicker than it looks, and it makes it ultra warm and cozy. Since I got it, I’ve been working from home in it more days than I’d like to admit, and have debated ordering it in more colors. It’s rare that I find a piece that’s so good I need to shout it from the mountain tops, but I couldn’t keep quiet about this one. Everyone I know should own this, and I hope my sister doesn’t read this, because it’s going to be one of her Christmas presents from me. Bonus: It’s on sale right now, and comes in eight different colors. Trust me: you’re going to want to be living in this too. More