I haven’t done a good roundup in a while, so I thought I’d share an all around favorites post. Beauty, skin, lifestyle, you name it. Some of these I’ve shared before, but some are new, and some I’ve never mentioned. The pandemic has given my sparkle a bit of a “buff,” if you will – it has roughed me up a bit and made me feel dull at times. So I didn’t feel motivated to do any beauty posts or recommendations because I haven’t felt particularly great myself! Now that I’ve accepted that this is going to last a little while longer, I’m working on “polishing” the details so I can feel like I’m shining again. (It makes sense to me). Anyway, favorites – let’s dive in, shall we?
Beauty Favorites
You already know what I’m putting at the top of this list. My L’Oreal Lash Paradise! Been using it for a few years, never disappointed. I love the way it makes my lashes look!
Kristin Ess Style Assist Blow Dry Mist – Love this for heat protectant, smoothing, and shine!
Colleen Rothschild Smooth & Shine Hair Serum – this might be my absolute favorite hair product, period. It has been sold out FOREVER. In the meantime, I have been using the CR Protect & Perfect Styling Cream. It is really good and I would buy it again if it was my only option, but it’s a little heavier on my fine hair than the serum. (It says it will be restocked in 2022, so be on the lookout!)
Batiste Bare dry shampoo – Still a favorite. This is my daily dry shampoo when I’m not splurging on Living Proof’s dry shampoo. It can’t be beat!
Cuccio Naturale Milk & Honey cuticle oil – I love this stuff! I bought it in April 2020 when I first started doing my own dip manicures at home. I’ve not even begun to make a dent in it. The smell is SO good, and it keeps my cuticles healthy and soft. I bought these little pen dispensers to put oil in, and I keep one everywhere! Purse, car, school, by my bed, etc.
Billie Razor – Still loving my razor and the close shave. Most of all, loving the fact that they send me refill razors for a low cost and I don’t even have to think about it.
Skincare Favorites
CeraVe PM moisturizer – I have literally used this for years and years. Like, I can’t even remember when I started because it has been forever. I love the way this makes my skin feel. No irritation, great for overnight, a good consistency, and I know it’s taking good care of my skin. My dermatologist loves CeraVe products and so do I!
Sorella Apothecary All Night Elixir – Another line I am a huge fan of. Science + naturals. My friend Lindsey is an esthetician and she introduced me to this line! This is technically listed as a serum, but I use it in place of the CeraVe pm moisturizer every other night to extend its life. SA products are pricey, haha! Worth it, but still pricey.
Sorella Apothecary Avocado oil lip hydrator – Also from Sorella Apothecary. Lindsey got me this when I had Davis, along with some eye gel and a warming mask. She gives the best gifts! This is super luxurious feeling. I put it on after I brush and floss at night and wear it to bed!
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen – Before I got this, I was totally against it. Who pays this much for sunscreen?! I had money left over on my flex spending card, so I got 2 bottles of this to try, hoping it wouldn’t disappoint. Now I don’t think I can ever go back! I haven’t tested it during the heat of the Raleigh summers, but I love it for everyday use, and it makes a great primer for makeup as well. It goes on super smooth and light. No grease, no residue, no white cast (it’s clear!).
Foot file – I’ve mentioned this item before, but thought it was worth mentioning again since I’m still using and loving it! This came in my FabFitFun box about a year ago. It’s great because it doesn’t cut your skin at all – it’s not a grater. It’s effective but not dangerous! I really like it. It’s currently unavailable – but here is a similar option.
Exfoliating cotton ovals from Target – Love the size of these and the fact that I can use the exfoliating side on days that I’m not using my exfoliating wash. I just keep repurchasing! Great for swiping your toner after you cleanse.
Lifestyle Favorites
Apple Watch band – This was on my Amazon wish list, and my mom got it for me this Christmas. I’ve been wearing it every day since then. I did have to take out one link because it was pretty loose! It makes me feel like I have a “real” watch on when I’m teaching and going to events.
Reduce Water cup – My friend Tori got this for me for Christmas, and I am obsessed! I used my Cricut machine to make some vinyl decals for it. Highlights: It holds 40oz and fits in my car cup holder! Sold! It also keeps things hot and cold.
Elisabeth Ashlie hoop huggies – Whitney got me these tiny and fun huggies from EA a while back. I couldn’t find them on the site but found these glow huggies and these sola hoops that are similar. I literally reach for these almost every day. I’ve shopped with EA for myself and for gifts for years now! Always happy with my purchases.
Plackers Micro Mint flossers – I know it’s not super glamorous to be recommending flossers on a blog, but oh well. I love these things. They are strong, have a hint of mint, and my dental hygienist told me it was okay to use these in place of regular flossing. (Especially if you’ll use these more than you’ll actually floss.)
There you have it! These are tried and true. My solid lineup of everyday favorites. What are your top items you can’t live without?

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