I can picture myself during freshman year, cramming late into the night at the library, waking up early to down the first of many coffees, and then dragging myself around campus in the 20-degree weather. Pimples, blackheads, and dry skin plague my face and my hair is a dry, knotted mess. A lot of that has changed since my first year. Now, I have better time management, a set sleep schedule, and I replaced coffee with more water and tea. But nothing will ever help the most than these self-care products to destress and heal skin.
1. Hydro Boost Hydrating Cleansing Gel (6 oz) $7-$12
This product was one of the first I introduced to my winter skin care routine in my sophomore year. My skin was burning and chapping badly at this point, but I was afraid of using moisturizer because I also have oily skin. Hydro Boost washes literally everything. I use it as makeup remover, too. It also washes on so softly that I feel like I’m washing with clouds. Plus, the smell is so clean and relaxing.
2. Formula 10.0.6 Sea Side Glow Algae + Sea Clay Skin-Hydrating Peel Mask $8
Ulta can be a little pricy, but they do have hidden treasures like the Formula 10.0.6’s line of face masks that cover any skin care need. The sea side glow makes my skin feel rejuvenated and soft. It’s perfect for the end of a long day, sitting back, eating popcorn, and watching The Crown (my new fav show at the moment).
3. Aveeno Clear Complexion Blemish Treatment Daily Moisturizer (4 oz) $14
From all of the amazing tips I learned from Queer Eye, it’s JVN’s love for moisturizer that sticks the most. In the mornings I usually use a rougher acne treatment face wash that leaves my skin tight and dry. I need to put on moisturizer ASAP otherwise I get dry, irritated patches near my nostrils and between my eyebrows.
4. Sugar Cookie Hand Lotion .99 ¢
Hand lotion is one of those things that you can use virtually anything for it, so long as the product is safe. Typically, I use normal Aveeno moisturizer for the back of my hands, but during the winter I like to switch things up a bit. Right now I am using a hand lotion I bought from a boutique called “What’s Your Sign” that has a more earthy and sweet smell. Here’s a super cheap hand lotion from Ulta that says “’tis the season.”
5. Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque (12 oz) $10
Hair masks have become increasingly popular these past few years. In the winter time, deep conditioning masks provide all the much needed hair healing for the week. It is important to not wash your hair everyday during the winter because that dries up your hair even more. Doing a deep conditioning once a week with this hair mask will leave your hair healthy, soft, and smelling so good.