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Beauty 411:
A few of my favourite things…
I don't use many products, but the ones that I do use, I'll probably end up using for life. I am extremely faithful to my cosmetics, and because of that, I find it very hard to switch to new brands.
PSST!
Companies are always trying to lure you with new and improved features, but I find that most of them do not deliver on what they promise, and I've had to angrily run back to my dependable products.
So I present to you, a list of the beauty staples that will never ever leave my makeup case, and a few new products that have made me a believer. Here is a rundown of my picks.
For Skin
I've tried higher end body lotions and they were okay, but some of them did not justify their high price tag. They may smell yummy or come in fancy packaging, but they didn't do much for my ashiness. Since my skin is extremely dry, I need to use products that will add moisture and shine to my skin.
After a long hot shower, I look forward to applying Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula all over my body. Forget about the unbelievable scent (it smells just like a fat hunk of chocolate!), I love that it adds an unfathomable amount of hydration to my skin.
This product is so good that it doesn't need commercials or excessive amounts of advertising to sell itself. The proof is in your skin.
This moisturizer is about six bucks (depending on the size of the bottle), but don't let the cheap price fool ya. There is no moisturizer out there like it.
For Body
I just started using Body Shop's Olive Soap about a month ago. I bought it because I felt like trying a new scent. I always stay in my safety zone and buy Shea, Coconut or Brazil nut soap, but for some reason I felt like branching out and trying something new. (Ooh, I'm such a rebel!!??)
Grrls, I am so glad that I did! This soap is fabulous.
Luckily it doesn't really smell like olive oil at all. It has a very clean and crisp smell. It makes you feel as if you have just finished having a refreshing dip in an exotic ocean. You need to try this soap.
For Eyes
In practically all of the beauty surveys that I have read, this item is repeatedly voted as the most popular and widely used mascara. Do you know why? Because it's just that good.
Maybelline Great Lash Mascara is probably the only beauty product that has been consistently good throughout the years. I've been wearing it so long that I don't remember not using it.
It may seem like your average mascara, but it can create thick dramatic lashes with a quick flick of the little brush.
This is without a doubt my fave beauty product.
For Lips
I have discovered the most perfect lip balm. I do realize that lip balm is not the most important beauty aid, but I am in love with one in particular.
I love Honey Trap from Lush. I have reviewed it in a previous issue of Happygrrls, but I couldn't think of another lip product that brings me so much joy (yes, I said joy!). The smell is intoxicating, and the balm feels great on my lips. I'm always ready to pucker up when I apply it to my lips.
If I were ever to be stranded on a deserted island and I could only take one cosmetic item - I would choose this!
For Hair
When I decided to go natural and quit chemically straightening my hair five years ago, I noticed that I needed to use different products in my hair. My hair took on a new texture and I had to learn how to take care of it. After a few bad decisions with shampoos and conditioners, I realized that my hair required something that would add tons of moisture.
A friend of mine who renounced the use of chemicals in her hair ages ago, told me that Aveda (a very environmentally sound company) carries a few products that are great for natural girls. She informed me that the prices are a bit steep, but it would be worth a try.
She suggested that I buy Sap Moss Shampoo as it worked wonders for her locks. I also purchased Cherry Almond Bark Conditioner after I spoke to a sales staff at the store.
From the very first time that I lathered up with the shampoo and the conditioner, I was hooked. The shampoo gave my hair a softness that I have never gotten from another shampoo. My hair smelled great (this shampoo gets serious props for the incredible fragrance) and looked healthy. The conditioner was also a miracle worker. It freed my nappy hair of tangles and gave it an unbelievable manageability.
Both of these products deserve their hefty price tag. I tried to give up these hair products and use cheaper ones, but I faithfully returned to the Aveda store. ¤ Michelle