feel good reveal!! arlyn surprised her parents with a much needed flash makeover…in two weeks

Home Decor

Feel Good Reveal!! Arlyn Surprised Her Parents With A Much-Needed Flash Makeover…In TWO WEEKS

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Back in 2020, I dove deep into inspirational non-fiction/self-help books geared toward creative people. One of my favorites was “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert and I’ve held on to the notion she shared in it that ideas are living things that jump from person to person until they get realized. I’m sure we all get ideas constantly, but I know when I get one that leaves me with no option but to move forward with it. It feels different. Like a pulsing glow inside my chest, a nervous energy that feels as if it’s buzzing out of my skin. It’s the only thing I can think about, determined to figure out how to bring it to fruition.

I had one of these ideas two weeks before Christmas this past December. A little thought that made its way out of my mouth in a conversation with my husband, Charles, which instantly breathed life into it. “What if I redo my parents’ living and dining rooms for them when we go back to Florida for the holidays?” There it was. Alive. I was simply going to have to figure it out…from California…with essentially a week before everyone who might be willing to work with me on this would disappear for the rest of the year. Cool. Easy, right?

You see, my parents were in deep need of at the very least a new sofa. Their two beloved cats had done what cats do best: gone to town on their upholstery. Besides that, their sofa and loveseat were about five years old but looked like they were at least twice that in age. I’d always joke that I felt like I was crawling into a crater because each cushion was so severely indented.

I had also heard my mom mention in passing that my dad wanted and needed a recliner, as he had been suffering from some health issues that required him to elevate his legs regularly. (They were fresh off an 8-day hospital stay for said health issues and both feeling very down, exhausted, and burdened.)

My siblings and I had toyed with the idea of pooling some money to just get them a new couch both because they needed it but also to lift their spirits and make them feel comfortable and excited about being home. But, as you already know, I had a better option: work with all the brands that have been so generous to us here at EHD to see if they might be willing to help us go further with a whole new living room setup, a new dining table (which they also needed), and some other decor to freshen things up on the first floor of the townhome they live in.

I ran the idea that same weekend by Jess, and by Monday, I got to work emailing everyone I knew was wonderful to work with but most importantly had great furniture that could get to Florida immediately. Our friends at Article came through for me BIG (HUGE!) TIME, and I rushed to get a mood board together to send them final picks within a day or two. The only problem was that I didn’t know any of the dimensions of my parents’ spaces, and I would have to be very creative to make sure everything fit properly without them finding out as the plan was to keep this whole thing secret until Christmas morning. I ended up asking my dad for a video walk-through with the excuse that I was getting “some pictures printed and framed for Mom as a gift,” and I needed to see all the walls to find the right spot and size. Another lie: I needed to know the dimensions of their tile so that I could guestimate how big the frame should be. Maybe he suspected that the request was a strange one, but he played along—18”x18”. From there, I could roughly measure out the spaces and their existing furniture, and make some educated guesses as to what might work.

There were a lot of nerves involved on my part, asking my brother and sister if they thought my parents would be offended I was going to come in and revamp everything without their approval. They both assured me my mom would love anything I did and my dad would be so grateful no matter what (both true statements). Almost nothing in their home was anything either of them cared for. Mostly hand-me-downs from me when I lived back east, thrift store finds that were never quite right, every imaginable sign that read FAMILY! FRIENDS! YOU’RE IN A HOME IN CASE YOU MIGHT BE CONFUSED, or homemade wall art my mom crafted with her Cricut. While there wasn’t necessarily anything wrong with any of that, the space didn’t get very good light and everything felt a bit dark, cluttered, and heavy with the hodgepodge of things; not descriptors you’d want for two people who could use a fresh start.

The furniture order arrival was going to cut it VERY close, and I had a lot of limitations due to this short delivery window, but we were able to nail down a design, all the appropriate pieces—World Market, Juniper Print Shop and RugsUSA were also on board to help fill out the rooms—and we just had to wait until the big day to tell my parents. The plan was to print out all my designs (see below), put them in a box to wrap, and present them with it on Christmas morning. Then, we’d wait a week until delivery (January 3rd), I’d install and style it all, shoot it and leave on the first flight out January 6.

I was SO excited, nervous, and highly anticipating their reactions. Spoiler alert: They were in such awe and disbelief, and, of course, my mom’s nearly instant ugly cry when she realized what was going to happen was amazing (I’m posting a Reel on Instagram of the whole thing today so check out my profile for it). Seeing their pure joy and appreciation was the absolute joy of not just our entire family’s Christmas, but personally of my whole year. Being able to do this for my amazing parents who truly needed it was an unbelievable gift I was lucky enough to be able to do.

After a week of scrambling, running around to World Market (THANK YOU AGAIN!!), Target, IKEA, Home Depot, and beyond to get the finishing touches, picking a ton of photos to print and frame—my parents’ favorite art will always be family photos—and a marathon two-day install plus photoshoot with Charles, it was finished. Meer hours before we boarded a plane and headed back to California. But the final result is one that my mom and dad are over the moon about. I want to talk you through it all, so let’s start in the main space: the living room.

Creating A Cozy Lounge Area

My parents have never owned a sectional. They were always traditional sofa and loveseat people, but my siblings and I knew they’d end up loving something that was one solid piece so more of us could sit together when we came over. Emily has been singing the praises of the Burrard Sectional from Article for years, and it was just the right size for them. I opted for the forest green color because, if you couldn’t tell from the before photos above, my parents are not afraid of color. Green is my mom’s favorite, in fact, so I knew this would be something she might have picked for herself. It’s 112″ which ended up being an ideal size for this area and by my count, my mom could be joined on it by all her grandkids with room to spare.

Remember that need for a recliner? Well, THANK GOODNESS Article sells an option that actually looks good. A rarity, people. A rarity. The leather version I wanted wouldn’t make it in time but the fabric Ellow Recliner worked out great. My dad was so, so excited about it and it was just what he needed. This sits where the loveseat used to be, so I added in the Matrix Yarrow Gold Chair to fill out the area and also give more options for seating when more people came over. We all instantly fell in love with the chair. It’s cushy, gorgeous, and just the right size for a small corner.

When the furniture arrived and was set up by the Article team, Charles asked me why I chose a left-facing chaise for the sofa. It was a fair question, as I went back and forth about it. The right-facing chaise would have probably made more sense in a space that was more closed off, as you never want to walk into a chaise when entering a “room” but my parents have one giant great room downstairs that needed some help to feel cozier. The left-facing chaise closes off the living area to the dining area, essentially creating a room without any walls. Plus, I know if the chaise were on the other side, the recliner and accent chair would have to float in the middle of the room with their backs facing out and I didn’t love that. This was the right solution given the circumstances.

I love all these side tables from Article. The wood, glass and leather sling one is SO GOOD, and I want it for myself except that my living room is tight and it wouldn’t fit. The black one between the chairs adds some visual softness.

Article’s Agotu Walnut Coffee Table was one of the only ones that could make it on time and it serendipitously worked out because it’s a great size and shape paired up with the sectional and also happens to be SO pretty IRL. It’s massively heavy due to the marble and super sturdy. I noted to my mom that we didn’t have a ton of options in terms of coffee tables but she kept saying, “It’s okay, I would have picked this one!” though I’m guessing she would have said that even if a cardboard box showed up. Moms, am I right? :)

Let’s talk about this TV gallery wall situation. So many of my parents’ storage pieces were open, so you could see everything from every angle and it made me itch. I knew they’d love the Oscuro Walnut 73″ Cabinet both because it’s lovely but also the ribbed glass still felt light and open while masking what was inside a bit. Above it, the walls were ITCHING for a statement. The ceilings are pretty high, and again, there is no room delineation here, so I cooked up this gallery wall for a one-two punch of creating a big statement to balance the large sectional, line up the living room, and also satisfy my parents’ preference for photos photos photos. I weaved in some beautiful art prints from Juniper Print Shop, an old Jane Denton x Emily piece I had, and a watercolor of Old San Juan my parents have owned since my youth.

That’s another thing. I really wanted to honor some of the things that were already here that did mean something to all of us. Some art, lots of blown glass pieces (like the one by the TV), souvenirs from their travels, and porcelain figurines my mom has collected over time. None of it is necessarily what I would have picked for the sake of styling the room, but this is my parents’ house, not a model home and it was so important to keep “them” in every little space and vignette. I drew the line at all the random birds and word art though. Sorry Mom, but you’ll have to fish your 17 frames with the words “family” and “grandchildren” on them out of the garage, okay?

WAIT! Before moving on…there isn’t a good photo of it but it’s worth a mention. My parents’ townhome is a rental, and their landlord is very strict against making changes. No painting, no changing out lights, no taking down vertical blinds, no making holes larger than nail holes for art. But the giant sliding glass door in the back was screaming for curtains. After tons of research, I found these brackets-slash-curtain rod holders that attach to the top rail of vertical blinds. They fit the extra-long rod I ordered from Amazon which does a pretty nice job of covering the front part of the rail so it just looks like traditional drapery hardware. GENIUS!!! Especially because they’re like $20. I had curtains I never got around to using that were the right height so I brought them with me in my suitcase and now they hide the ugly verticle blinds.

Make New Friends, But Keep the Old (Furniture)

Moving on…I decided not to replace my mom’s existing cherry credenza (or a display cabinet in the dining area) because I knew she loved them and the richness was nice to add some depth to the new things I brought in. Her beloved Aura frame, which shuffles through digital copies of photos, stayed where it was before but I swapped out the lamp for something better scaled to the piece, added some pattern and color with Juniper Print Shop prints, and fished out some glassware from the China cabinet. A plant was also very much needed.

Okay, let’s talk about this giant bookcase unit. I don’t know if the story I have of it in my head is accurate, but I doubt it’s too far off. Basically, my mom saw it at a charity shop she used to volunteer at and it sat around forever so she eventually got to take it home for either pennies on the dollar or for free. That, or she got it from her friend who got it from a thrift store. I don’t know. What I do know is that it was painted the absolute worst shade of beige with this bizarre brown brush stroke treatment that took it from blah to very bad.

The area was far too large to get rid of this, plus they benefitted from the storage, so I came up with the idea to paint it a bold mustard yellow (Lamplit by Behr specifically) to make it a feature rather than something we all wanted to hide. I did the whole thing one night after the baby went to sleep and filled in streaky parts the next morning. Some restyling of the shelves was in order, and as easy as it would have been to go to a place like Target, and buy a bunch of random “pretty” things to fill it with, that would have been, uh…meaningless. The top shelf houses some books as well as two vintage cameras that were my grandfathers’ (each belonging to a different one). The metal trio are brass pharmacy mortar and pestles my dad—who worked in pharmaceuticals a great part of his career—has had forever, the gold Elton John-like glasses are a tchotchke my mom insisted we keep and display (“Sure mom, whatever you want”), the snowglobes were all given to my mom over the years by us kids, and the rest can tell a similar story. Porcelain angels from decades ago, collectible plates from cruise locations visited, diecast vintage cars from my dad’s Corvette enthusiast phase…etc. etc. etc. It’s uniquely my mom and dad, and even if it’s still a little cluttered by Instagram standards, I love it because it represents so many parts of their life and our family.

These units used to be nearly flush with the right wall, leaving too large of an open area to the left of them before the living room area started, so we shifted them over just enough to fit in a little seating area. I grabbed art from the entryway and even the downstairs powder bath to fill it out, and added in this pretty swing-arm sconce from Article in case someone wanted to sit in the chair (from World Market) and read.

Funny story about the rug you see in the foreground. Rugs USA was kind enough to supply me with four rugs for the spaces I needed to revamp. I shopped entirely from Emily’s line for them (more on that in a bit), and I made a mistake with the dining area. I ordered a 5×8 Blue Jay which is far too small for a 6-8 seater table. I know this. I know this without even seeing the size of the table. But everything was so rushed that this one got by me. RugsUSA tried to rush me a new larger 8×10 but it sadly didn’t make it in time for the shoot. I used the small 5×8 rug creatively just for the photos to get it in in some capacity.

A Dining Room Fit For Family

Speaking of the dining room. I could regale you with yet another thrift store find story, but I’ll skip the details just to say that my parents have wanted a 6-seater table for years. However, at the time they moved in here after selling my larger childhood home, they settled on a metal and glass 4-top they got for free (I think) with chairs my mom reupholstered with a friend. It was too small for the space visually but also for their life and needs. I was so happy Article had a large table—the Conan Oval Dining Table—that was available to ship on time so I could give them what they wanted. You’ll notice the table is light wood and the chairs are dark wood, and that’s again due to the limitations of the turnaround time but it actually looks pretty okay in person and brings together all the varied wood tones throughout this floor. The blue chairs tie back to the navy part of the living room rug (the Rowena from Emily’s line which I’ve loved since the first moment I saw it—it’s out of stock right now but there are more on the way!).

A Mid-Flight Beauty Routine Can Save Your Skin—Here's What to Pack

Here’s the thing about zooming in a metal tube 35,000 feet off the ground—it’s seriously dry in there. You can thank high-altitude low-humidity levels and cabin pressure for that (along with a twist of UV radiation pouring through the windows). While a quick flight may not create much of a noticeable difference in your skin health, a longer flight certainly can. The solution? A mid-flight skin care routine, which can range from a simple hydrating spritz now and again to a full-blown wash and moisturize regimen. We asked skin care pros for their best tips on nailing a mid-flight routine to ensure you’re glowy on arrival. Mona Mislankar, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, Ohio Margarita Lolis, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey What Is a Mid-Flight Skin Care Routine? A mid-flight beauty care routine is an optional regimen you can perform at any point throughout a long-haul flight where your skin is being exposed to super dry air for hours on end. Some people like to do it at the halfway point as a refresh right before they get off the plane so they’re glowing when they land, or just before they go to sleep while flying to keep up with their usual nightly routine. “The air inside the cabin typically has a humidity of around 10% to 20%, which is much lower than the 30% to 65% humidity we experience on the ground,” explains Mona Mislankar, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Cincinnati, Ohio. “This can lead to dry, tight, or flaky skin, especially on long flights.” The dryness can also make sure more vulnerable to irritation, which can end up snowballing once you land at your final destination, notes Margarita Lolis, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in New Jersey. “This is why a mid-flight routine is a good way to keep your skin fresh and prepped for your travel plans,” Dr. Lolis says. “Keeping your skin hydrated and staying on track with your nighttime regimen if you’re flying overnight is definitely recommended.” Benefits of Doing a Mid-Flight Skin Care Routine Mid-flight skin care routines aren’t considered necessary, but those who do them swear by the difference they can make. Here’s why. Maintains moisture levels: “Giving your skin some TLC mid-flight maintains your epidermal moisture levels and maintains your skin barrier,” Dr. Lolis notes. “This is especially true for those who are prone to dryness.” Minimizes irritation and breakouts: Traveling, in general, can disrupt your skin’s health thanks to stress, new climates, and disrupted sleep. Dr. Lolis says a mid-flight routine can help with irritation and breakouts—especially if you already have finicky skin. Keeps your routine consistent: You already wash and moisturize before bed, so why skip this step simply because you’re 35,000 feet in the sky? Keeping a consistent routine keeps your mind and body feeling good. Makes flying more enjoyable: Let’s be real—those flights can drag on. Doing a little mid-flight skin care routine helps pass the time. Plus, it washes off grime from the day and keeps skin hydrated and healthy which makes the whole flight more enjoyable. The Perfect Mid-Flight Beauty Routine If you do decide to adopt a mid-flight skin care routine, the key is to keep things simple with just the essentials. “I am absolutely a fan of less is more—and simple skin care is best,” Dr. Minslaker says. Here’s what we recommend packing in your plane kit. The Essentials No need to pack your entire arsenal of beauty loot. All you need for a mid-flight skin care routine is a cleanser (like face wash, makeup remover wipes, or micellar water), a moisturizer (serum and/or cream), and sunscreen. “Cleansing your skin maximizes how well the products absorb,” Dr. Lolis says. “Next, use a hyaluronic acid serum. Serums penetrate deeper and hyaluronic acid binds and attracts water to your skin very efficiently. Last, layer on a thicker moisturizer with ceramides to lock in the moisture.” Dr. Minslaker says that if you’re flying for longer than two hours, it’s best to pack sunscreen and reapply every two hours throughout the flight. This is true good advice you’re sitting next to the window or not. Optional Extras You’ll be set with the skin care essential above, but consider packing these extras depending on your needs. Lip balm: “Due to the low humidity in cabin air, your lips can become dry and chapped more easily,” Dr. Lolis says. Lip balm to the rescue. Pimple patches: If you deal with breakouts, a pimple patch is a true mid-flight hero, notes Dr. Minslaker. Facial mist: Spritzing on a hydrating facial mist a few times throughout your flight can help keep skin bouncy, soft, and hydrated. Sheet mask: If you want to go the extra mile, pack a sheet mask in your vanity kit. Apply it after cleansing but before your serum and/or moisturizer. If you don’t want to go that bold, eye masks are more subtle.

Got Unpleasant Smells in Your Yard? These 7 Plants Can Help Mask Them

If your neighbors love barbecues, have dodgy drains, or their pets leave pungent smells of pee on the border of your yard, you might be looking for solutions to mask malodors. Adding specific fragrant flowers to your landscape can help. Always consider the plant's height, the time of year and day it emits its scents, the fragrance's intensity, and the appropriate location to make the most of your selection. Here are seven plants that hide bad smells to save you from falling out with your friends over the fence. Butterfly Bush Butterfly bushes (Buddleja davidii) are fast-growing shrubs that can form a dense privacy screen along the fence between you and your neighbor, blocking wafting odors and ash particles. Depending on the type you select, you—and those beneficial pollinators—can enjoy the honey-like scent of the beautiful, long-lasting, nose-height blooms from mid-summer through fall. The fragrance is at its strongest around midday—ideal for masking the burning bouquet of lunchtime barbecues. However, be aware that some butterfly bush species are invasive in parts of the US. Butterfly bushes grow best in USDA hardiness zones five to nine. They appreciate full sun and well-draining soil and need regular pruning to promote the longest bloom period. Curry Plant When you're looking for ideas for a small backyard, consider curry plants (Helichrysum italicum). They’re great plants to grow in containers along your decking where it backs onto your neighbor's garden or in the most pungeant corner. Enjoy the heady, spicy scent of the attractive silvery foliage of this aromatic perennial herb in sunny spots in USDA hardiness zones eight to 11. The yellow blooms of these low-maintenance, pest-resistant plants are perfect for dry xeriscapes. Farrer Virburnum Virburnum ferreri, which grows in zones six to eight, is a good choice for disguising the smell of your neighbors' rotting leaf pile in the fall. The fragrant pink flowers of this deciduous shrub bloom from late fall through winter. Plant in a full sun or partial shade position and keep the soil consistently moist to promote the best flowering. Jasmine Another familiar floral fragrance is that of the jasmine blooms. There are many jasmine types to choose from, allowing you to select the best fit for your conditions and the time of year you want the blooms to be part of your yard’s smellscape. Most jasmine species grow in zones seven to 10 and appreciate full sun, well-draining, loamy, and evenly moist soil. These climbing plants are perfect for pergolas, providing a scented sanctuary away from any unpleasant odors from over the fence. Lavender When you think of fragrant flowers, lavender is one of the archetypical examples. There are lots of types of lavender plants to choose from, with most of the summer-time blooms emitting a strong, soapy scent. The leaves also release a scent when you touch them, the rest of the year. These low-growing perennial shrubs are ideal for growing as a border along fence perimeters where dogs pee, as long as you can provide the full sun and well-draining soil conditions they require. You can also grow lavender in pots or hang dry lavender on your porch for year-round aromas. Honeysuckle Honeysuckle is a fragrant garden classic, with many species emitting their sweet smell in the evening and at night. These vining shrubs can be wound around trellises against your fence to disguise the odors of evening grills one yard over. Most types of honeysuckle need full sun and well-draining soil. Consider native species over the highly invasive plant types, such as Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica). Hyacinth Hyacinths have some of the sweetest fragrant spring blooms, making them ideal if you want to hide the smell of your neighbor’s stagnant water from spring showers or geosmin—the earthy smell from the soil that can be strongest in this season. While the blooms are relatively short-lived, if you plant them in large groups, you can appreciate the scent for longer and across more of your yard. Plant hyacinths in full sun or partial shade, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Want Juicier Strawberries? How to Harvest Them Without Wrecking Your Plant

There’s nothing more delicious than intensely sweet, sun-warmed, home-grown strawberries harvested from your yard—especially when they cost a fraction of the price of store-bought varieties. Selecting the right type of strawberry, providing top-class care, and harvesting at the right time and with the right techniques means you can enjoy the freshest of fruit throughout the summer. Learn when and how to harvest strawberries to make the most of your patch's pickings. When to Harvest Strawberries Harvest your strawberries when the fruits are uniformly red (regardless of what size they are), without any visible white patches. Most strawberry varieties' fruits fully ripen about 28 to 30 days after the plants bloom. However, the timing of strawberry harvest depends on the variety you’re growing, the planting date, and local conditions. During the peak harvest period, you'll need to pick strawberries every other day when the weather is warm and every three to four days when conditions are cooler. June-Bearing Strawberries June-bearing strawberries produce one fruit crop per year. The year after planting, you should be able to harvest from your plants for around three to six weeks at some point starting in late spring or early summer. Harvest timings vary depending on your local climate and whether the strawberries are rated as early, midseason, or late varieties. Everbearing Strawberries You’ll be able to harvest from your everbearing strawberries twice a year—once in early summer and again in late summer. However, be aware that they don’t tend to be as productive as June-bearing or day-neutral varieties, so your harvest will probably be smaller. Day-Neutral Strawberries Providing temperatures remain between 40ºF and 90ºF, you should be able to harvest day-neutral strawberries throughout the growing season. This can start as early as May for some cultivars and climates and go all the way through to the first hard frost around October. Avoid Overripe Strawberries Leaving strawberries on the vine too long encourages mold, which can spread to other plants. The fruits also lose their intensely sweet flavour and can turn mushy. How to Harvest Strawberries Perfecting your strawberry picking practices means the fruits will better retain their firmness and flavor. Carefully inspect your vines and fruits: Those red, ripe berries can be hiding amongst the tangle of runners produced by these low-growing vining perennials. Leave some stem attached: Use your fingers or small, sterile pruning shears to pinch off around 1/4 inch of the stem below the fruit rather than pulling them off by the little green cap. This minimizes the chance of damaging the fruit, keeping your berries fresh for longer. Eat while they’re fresh: Garden-grown strawberries taste better than store-bought, but they don’t last as long. They taste delicious when freshly picked, or you can store them in the fridge for a few days to a week. Repeat the process every two to four days: This reduces the risk of diseases spreading and improves harvestable yields. If you spot any wounded or moldy berries in your vines, it’s best to remove them immediately. Strawberry Care Tips Providing optimal care and conditions means your strawberry harvest will be healthier and heftier. Keep these tips in mind to make the most of your crop. Select a sunny site: Strawberries need a full sun position to produce the best harvest. Ten or more hours is ideal. Don’t forget to feed: Your strawberry plants will appreciate a loamy soil rich in organic matter such as leaf compost or manure. When and what you fertilize your strawberries with depends on the variety you’re growing and your soil composition. Tidy your plants: Pruning strawberries by removing runners and thinning out these fast-growing vines directs energy to the mother plant and promotes good air circulation. Watch out for weeds: These can quickly outcompete your sensitive, shallow-rooted strawberry plants. Hand weeding is the safest option if you see them sprouting up between your strawberry plant rows. Protect your plants from frost damage: If temperatures drop below 15°F in your region, winterize your strawberry plants. Cover these perennials with a generous layer of insulating straw mulch or row covers that you can remove when it gets warmer in the spring.

EHD Team Picks: Our Absolute Favorite Beauty Products (That We Can’t Quit)

Picture this: You walk into a Sephora/Ulta/your beauty store of choice and every product had a recommendation underneath it from someone you knew and trusted (like your friend Jenn, for instance, who stockpiles free makeup samples and knows the difference between hyaluronic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids.) Those recommendations from “Jenn” don’t come from a hunch…they happen to be totally educated information after she trialed said product for months or years (or even decades)…I mean, how much would you love that?!? Never again would you have to spend $568.47 only to find that 87% of what you bought was mediocre, soon to be forgotten, sadly covered in dust until you get the bug to clean out your medicine cabinet and think “oh yeeeaaahhh…I hated this.” Yes, of course, there are reviews online you can look at prior to shopping, but I mean its hard to trust a bunch of strangers. Now, we are all, of course, A BUNCH OF STRANGERS, BUT you know us all by proxy as people who work behind the scenes of a site you (hopefully) visit often. We’re friends, right? I’d like to think so. So, as your friends, we are highly recommending the following 73 beauty products for face, body and hair. [drawattention ID=159844] Name: Emily What I Do at EHD: I play the role of Emily Henderson in Emily Henderson design. Skin Type: I have what I call “cheap white skin” which means thin, English/Irish skin that can be super dry and wrinkles easily when in sun (or as I get older, obviously). Pain Points: Besides the challenge of not knowing how to do my brows (compounded with the fact that I don’t really care), I need a moisturizer that I can smother myself in, that won’t get caught even in my small pores. My last facialist on Mother’s Day told me that I had so many blackheads and I was shocked because I couldn’t see them at all. She said it’s from over moisturizing, but then I was like “you said I had dry skin and that I need to moisturize a lot!!” So, it’s a lose, lose. Beauty Expert Level (scale 1 to 5): 1+ I basically just do whatever my friends or makeup artists tell me to do. It’s hard to trust most magazines, blogs or even beauty influencers these days nor do I like to spend thousands of dollars experimenting so I do what my friends tell me to do. I don’t really like the look of makeup on my face but I really want to do a post where someone experiments and does cool/weird stuff to convince me that I can pull it off. Product Wish List: I like as few products as possible both in my bathroom and my purse. I want cruelty-free and for it to look as natural as possible on my fair skin. Mostly, I want whatever will make me look like a young sexy French model. I’m accepting daily suggestions to help in that transformation. Skincare Philosophy: I just want to wake up and go (which is why I get lash extensions and want microblading so badly on my brows, but won’t do it because I know it won’t look good on me). 1. Clinique Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Color Balm in Chunky Cheery, $17.50: I’ve been using this product for 10+ years and I love how it pops and feels. It’s never crazy bright and it goes on so smooth, and yet I don’t need to look in the mirror to make sure it’s in the right place because it glides on so easily. So while it does add a lot of color, it’s more of a chapstick. It doesn’t look like I’m wearing “lipstick” which is what I like to go for generally. 2. Lashfood Browfood Tinted Brow Enhancing Gelfix, $24: I don’t actually know yet if this works, but I’ve been told to use it, so use it I will. I’ll let you know in a year if I grow the 10 hairs it promises. 3. Kate Somerville DermalQuench Liquid Lift + Retinol, $98: I just started doing this a couple months ago and I swear it works and my skin looks, well, younger. It feels VERY scientific because its weird foam that sizzles on your skin. 4. St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse with Mitt, $32 + $6.50: I speak self-tanner fluently and this is my favorite at-home treatment (so far) that I’ve used for years. YOU MUST use that mitt, but if you apply it right, you look tan, not orange and it’s super even and lasts for 4 days (dependiing on how often you shower). I literally dreamt of this product when I was a teenager before it existed. 5. DPHue Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse, $35: I have a dry scalp and well, extremely dry hair what with last year’s bleaching situation, so I try not to shampoo too much and mostly use this to remove impurities, and argon is super moisturizing. Also, Justin Anderson (one of the founders of DPHue) is just an awesome person so if you like to support nice people then know that I recommend him fully. If you have brassy hair his purple shampoo is great, but my hair is too cool to use it. 6. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment, From $24: I’ve been using this for years as an exfoliating mask and it’s a noticeable difference when done with it. I think they call it the “10-minute facial” or something super catchy like that. Plus, it’s bright green so it feels like it MUST be healthy for my face. 7. NARS Blush in Orgasm, $30: I really should try a different blush but for now (and the last 10 years) this is that pop of pink that I love. 8. Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil, $34: I’m listening to you guys and I’m trying to have better brows, I promise. I went to Striiike and Kristie recommended this product to me and so far I’m happy. A friend of mine also thinks that I need a sharp pencil to make it look more like real hair so I’m searching for that to help supplement. But the tone is good with my face (I’m told—I guess I was using a pencil that was too warm previously). 9. Kate Somerville Goat Milk De-Puffing Eye Balm, $38: I love the idea and the feeling of this product (and so does Brian). I don’t see a huge difference but on those days when I’m puffy and I don’t have time to do anything proper, this smooths and just feels really good. 10. Caudalie Premier Cru Cream, $140: I started Caudalie when I was pregnant with Charlie (it’s organic so that was my excuse to splurge) and I just love it. I use the daily moisturizer and when I’m not out of it, I use this night cream. It smells good and just feels really smooth. 11. Kristin Ess Dry Finish Working Texture Spray, $14: My hair has a lot of texture, but can also be super fluffy and fuzzy so this kinda tames the texture to look more “fun and messy” than frizzy. [drawattention ID=159851] Name: Arlyn What I Do at EHD: Editorial Director Skin Type: Is “Can’t Make Up Its Mind” a skin type? No? Okay then…combination (but mostly oily and acne-prone). Pain Points: My skin is really sensitive and breaks out just for THINKING about chicken wings. I have a very oily T-Zone and tend to get hormonal acne along my jawline (bummer), but if I don’t moisturize enough, my skin is tight and dry and dull. My pores are the size of sinkholes so they suck up ALL the filth, and my eyebrows are patchy and have seen lusher days (hello, 33). Beauty Expert Level (scale 1 to 5): 5+ (my darling husband would surely leave me if he knew what being Sephora VIB Rouge meant in terms of $$$ spent). Product Wish List: Prefer anything natural, cruelty-free but that actually works (though I bend for NARS…GET IT TOGETHER, NARS). I’m also a sucker for “prestige” brands and anything that feels like #selfcare and will keep me YOUNG FOREVER. Skincare Philosophy: There’s no wound—emotional or physical—a sheet mask can’t heal. 1. Acure Day Cream, $17: When I don’t feel like splurging on Drunk Elephant (#3), I usually turn to Acure, which I get at Target, and frankly, I always forget how much I love this stuff until I’m feeling frugal and avoiding Sephora. It’s a budget pick that performs like a splurge. Bonus: It’s vegan and cruelty-free. 2. NARS Matte Lipstick Pencil in Cruella, $27: Every woman (who likes makeup and lipstick) should have their signature “red” and this is mine. I discovered it kind of by accident and I’ve re-upped several times since. It’s velvety and luscious and makes me feel super vampy. The formula isn’t meant to be long-lasting, so I do have to reapply a few times during the day, but it does last several hours and doesn’t get all clumpy like some all-day formulas do. 3. Drunk Elephant Moisturizer, $60: I’m all for brands like Drunk Elephant that are cruelty-free. This face cream provides the perfect level of moisture for my really-oily-but-also-kind-of-dry face. It doesn’t break me out, it absorbs quickly and the pump applicator dispels the ideal amount each time so you never have any wasteful “whoops” moments. 4. Amika Dry Shampoo, $25: Another HG (holy grail) product for me. My hair is GREASY (I have to wash it every day, basically), but since finding this when I was working on a “best dry shampoo” story last year, I was instantly sold. It doesn’t feel chalky or leave my dark strands dusty and white. And it smells really yummy. 5. Benefit Rollerlash Mascara, $24: I loved Too Faced’s Better Than Sex Mascara for a looooong time, but got so tired of it flaking off (and the water-proof formula was not my favorite). Then I found Rollerlash from Benefit and while it doesn’t give me the same insane falsies-like volume, it still lengthens really well and doesn’t give me raccoon eyes halfway through the day. I’ll take it. 6. Beauty Blender Pro, $20: Best tool I’ve ever used to put on foundation (and I’ve tried a lot)…full stop. It leaves my face even, not streaky, is easy to clean (I used the branded soap that was $$$ for a while until I discovered Dr. Bronner’s Castile soap worked just as well for so much less) and lasts for months and months (so I don’t feel wasteful tossing out single-use sponges). 7. Glossier Sunscreen SPF 35, $25: Sunscreen and my face do not get along. I’ve tried so many and they either feel really thick and paste-y or break me out. I used SuperGoop’s City Sunscreen Serum for years until I found Glossier’s, which I like just as much and it’s almost half the price. 8. NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation in Vallauris, $49: I think the last time I had smooth skin, I still thought boys had cooties, so I feel best with foundation. I DO NOT like thick, full-coverage foundations, but need something with some actual coverage that feels light and doesn’t LOOK like I’m wearing thick cake-y base. After decades of wearing bad foundations, I finally discovered this one from NARS. It’s insanely light and thin yet somehow still covers all my acne marks and discoloration without added concealer. If I don’t set it with powder, I do get a bit oily, but it lasts basically all day, isn’t streaky, blends really well and I can’t be without it. 9. Sunday Riley Power Couple Duo, $85: Yes, this is pricey, but whoa does my skin transform when I actually use the kit. It smells AWFUL, but the Good Genes’ lactic acid must eat away at the top layer of my skin or something because after a week or so of using it religiously with the sleeping oil, my skin is SO SMOOTH. It’s basically magic (that comes at a cost). This is Holy Grail stuff. So stinky, but effective! 10. Thayers Witch Hazel, $9: Take a quick look at the 4.5-star rating on Amazon from OVER 10,000 PEOPLE…this stuff is freaking awesome and is super affordable. I bought it when I was having a particularly bad breakout thing happening on my jawline, and after using it a few times a day for a few days, the toner really started clearing me up. It’s alcohol-free, smells really nice and makes my face feel awesome. 11. Korres Foaming Face Wash, $26: This is the face wash I go back to time and again when I stray (I’m a beauty product player…#playasgonnaplay). It leaves my face clean as a whistle without stripping it (it’s a cream cleanser, which works great for my combo skin). More pluses: it doesn’t have sulfates, formaldehyde, mineral oil, phthalates, silicones or other yucky ingredients I don’t want seeping into my pores twice a day. 12. Sephora Liquid Liner, $12: Are greasy eyelids a thing, because if they are, I have them. My eyelid skin EATS makeup, so finding a liner that stays put is hard. I’ve spent big bucks on “24-hour” formulas (I call BS because they’re never an all-day thing for me unless I use a primer), but I find that Sephora’s eyeliners (including this liquid version) work just as well as the “premium” brands, are easy to apply and come in lots of fun colors. [drawattention ID=159831] Name: Sara What I Do at EHD: Photographer Skin Type: ‘A dry, red war zone of angry hormonal acne’ wouldn’t be an exaggeration. Pain Points: I’ve always had acne, but when I turned 25 it took a turn for the cystic & hormonal. My skin is also typically dry & ruddy. No powder ever touches this skin. While the products I’m highlighting are essentials in my skin & beauty routine, the only thing that has truly helped battle my hormonal acne directly is a medication called Spironolactone I began taking about 7 months ago after a conversation with my doctor. It’s made such a difference in my skin (but took about 3 months to kick-in). Beauty Expert Level (scale 1 to 5): 5-ish Product Wish List: Cruelty-free whenever possible! There are so many good brands on the cruelty-free train these days (I love using this site to quickly check brands if I’m out shopping). Routine: AM – Wash, Tone, Moisturize, SPF, CC Cream. PM – Wash, Tone, Lactic Acid, Retinol, eye cream. Skincare Philosophy: In Caroline Hirons we trust. Skincare is an investment in yourself – you only get one face. 1. Kristen Ess Dry Finish Working Texture Spray, $14: This is what hair dreams are made of if your dream is that perfectly unperfect, bed hair that so many French girls on Instagram seem to be born with. If that sounds great (it does, right?), then you want a can of this. 2. Glossier Cloud Paint, $18: I love the texture of these blushes, the layerability of their color, the wide range of colors they come in, how they don’t look/feel like a dry powder, and the fact that one tube will last you FOREVER. I’m crushing on Beam for summer, but also love the color Dusk. 3. Lush Fresh Farmacy Soothing Calamine Bar, $12: This is the face wash I use in the mornings or when my face is feeling a little more sensitive (for example, after sun exposure). It’s gentle, non-exfoliating, and specially formulated to be super soft on skin. 4. Sunday Riley Good Genes All-In-One Lactic Acid Treatment, $158: ACID EXFOLIATION, people. This is pricey, but I see real results with consistent use (for me that’s every night). I follow it up with Sunday Riley’s Sleeping Night Oil, which has retinol. Retinoids will keep your skin young, friends. 5. Indie Lee CoQ-10 Toner, $32: Toners are super important to a skin routine. This non-acid toner is what I use in the mornings after I wash my face. It’s super hydrating with aloe and hyaluronic acid, and the perfect foundation for my moisturizer. 6. Lush Herbalism Natural Herbal Face & Body Cleanser, $17: I have a few different face washes, which I switch up depending on how my skin is feeling (this is a PM wash for me). This is more of a paste, with ground almonds that gently exfoliate. It’s helped my acne prone skin glow, but be wary because particle exfoliation isn’t for everyone. 7. MILK Makeup Kush High Volume Mascara, $24: This is new to the MILK Makeup line, and I’m very into it. It’s super thickening, so I like to use this for volume near the roots and then layer on Glossier’s new Lash Slick mascara (with fibers!) on my tips for amazing added length. 8. Pixi Skintreats Glow Tonic, $15: This is my current night time toner, which has 5% Glycolic acid (the holy grail of acid exfoliants which dissolves dead skin cells and helps skin look brighter, feel softer, fades pigmentation, and fights signs of again). It’s affordable AND sold at Target. It didn’t make it to the board, but their Double Cleanse face cleanser is another favorite Pixi product and the best for removing stubborn makeup. 9. Grace & Stella Anti-Wrinkle + Energizing Gold Collagen Eye Masks, $19 for 12 pairs: Up too late? Out last night drinking? Ate too much salty food yesterday? Whatever made your face puffy or put dark bags under your eyes, these little guys really help. 10. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40, $32: The sun is the number one most aging and damaging thing for your skin. Even though I’m in the office most of the day, I still slap this stuff on, just in case the sun grazes my face for a single second while I drive to work. It feels like velvet, is completely invisible, and goes on seamlessly over any face tint I’m wearing. 11. It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream SPF 50+, $38: This is as close to foundation as I have ever gotten. It’s an opaque tinted cream that helps hide my acne scars and even out my redness, but still has a glowy/dewy effect. A little goes a long way, and it works really well. Plus, it has built-in SPF! If this is a little too opaque for you, try MILK Makeup’s Sunshine Skin Tint, which is my weekend go-to. 12. Josie Maran Pure Argan Milk Intensive Hydrating Treatment, $56: This is the only moisturizer I use because it keeps my skin feeling fresh all day. I have a very serious romantic relationship with this stuff. Please Josie Maran, never ever discontinue this magic-in-a-bottle. [drawattention ID=159823] Name: Velinda What I Do at EHD: Design Team! Skin Type: Combination Pain Points: Eyes that puff and hair that poofs. Beauty Expert Level (scale 1 to 5): 3? I’d be entry-level if not for my beauty-savvy friends/cosmetologist sister who have shared enough to keep me afloat. Product Wish List: Pretty content, currently…though those black, charcoal peel-your-face-off masks look like so much fun. Are those actually good for you? Skincare Philosophy: Fingers Crossed!!! And Sunscreen. 1. Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Spray SPF 15, $36: When I visited a dermatologist as a 22 year-old in an attempt to take care of my skin for the first time ever, the doctor told me more than any other product/procedure out there, SUNSCREEN was the secret to “lasting youth.” I can be pretty hit-or-miss when it comes to any beauty regimen, but I can now claim sunscreen use as a decade-long ritual. Shiseido makes a product that’s both face-friendly AND a spray. Sprays are my favorite! Easy to use/reapply, without ruining makeup. 2. Oz Naturals Vitamin C Facial Serum, $18: I first used this when I found a bottle in a check out lane at Marshall’s. I seemed to notice more even, bright skin, but never bought another bottle. Then, this year, I met with a friend/makeup artist in preparation for a wedding skincare routine. I confessed that my only existing “routine” consisted of some oil, sunscreen and alcohol-riddled hair products, she educated me on some basics. (I told her to keep it VERY simple, or I’d abandon). Vitamin C was on her short-list of “must do these four things at night” so…back to this I go. 3. Alterna Haircare Caviar Anti-Aging Replenishing Moisture Shampoo, $34: Remember that makeup-artist friend I mentioned a few lines ago? As a wedding gift, she gave my wife and I a basket of some of her favorite products to use in preparation for our day. The basket included many incredible items I wouldn’t have EVER known to look for. The Alterna products were the ones Katie and I fell in love with most. This shampoo and conditioner apparently contain “real caviar extract, rich in omega 3 fatty acids” and my hair now pretty much feels like silk and so does Katie’s. We have different hair-types and have had to get different shampoos/conditioners in the past. Having one we can share? We’re in. There’s also a ton of bad things it doesn’t include (which my friend was super excited about…but I only remember “sulfates”). 4. Alterna Haircare Caviar Anti-Aging Replenishing Moisture Conditioner, $34: Love this for all the same reasons mentioned for its sister shampoo in #3. 5. Alterna Haircare Caviar Anti-Aging Omega+ Anti-Frizz Dry Oil Mist, $34: I don’t know why I didn’t list this one first. It’s my personal favorite. Several weeks ago, Emily asked me what I put in my hair after I go swimming (spoiler alert for future blog posts?). My response was, “some cheap, alcohol-based thing I couldn’t recommend to anyone.” But this stuff is actually worth mentioning! It uses skincare oils (avocado oil, Abyssinian oil and camellia oil) to smooth frizz, even in humidity. I like that I can put it in my hair while it’s still damp (i.e. after I go swimming) so I can prevent frizz. But it can also go on dry hair…which Katie likes to use as a heat protectant before she uses her irons and I like to use on day three of having not washed my hair to tame/add shine. 6. Trader Joe’s Coconut Oil, $10: I’ve tended toward a hippie-dippie approach thus far in my self-care and it wouldn’t be complete without coconut oil. I’ve used it as moisturizer in the past (I’ve found more penetrating options recently). But I still use it to tame some of my curly-hair frizz and to remove eye-makeup. (Olive oil has proven another good option, but has a more distinct smell that I don’t want lingering in my hair). My “high-end” brand of choice: Trader Joe’s. 7. African Shea Butter 100% Natural, $9: I found a jar of this stuff in a surf shop in Florida a few years ago. The lid made such claims as being a “treatment for eczema, arthritis pain, skin discoloration, stretch marks, diaper rash, wrinkles, muscle stiffness, dry hair/skin” and more. But you can’t trust anything coming out of Florida, right (well, except for Arlyn, of course, who just moved here from there)? I figured since it claimed to be a miracle cure for everything from dry hands to cancer and it cost $7, I’d try it. I can’t attest to every claim, but I’m still using it as a fantastic moisturizer! So much better than a lotion. 8. Alterna Haircare Caviar Anti-Aging Sheer Dry Shampoo Powder Spray, $25: Katie loved this product. I had never used dry shampoo before (my hair gets frizzy vs. greasy…that means I don’t need dry shampoo? Excuse my ignorance). But I’ve tried this stuff because my wife raved about it and I figured more “shampoo” just made me cleaner? I liked it because I couldn’t feel any product in my hair and it wasn’t chalky. It smelled nice. Katie liked how voluminous it made her hair. And they’ve squeezed 200 pumps into a travel-sized bottle… extra points for good design! 9. bareMinerals Mineral Veil Finishing Powder, $23: My wife turned me onto this one. I couldn’t tell you what it was exactly, so I looked it up. Turns out, it’s a “finishing powder” and it “gives your skin a soft, airbrushed quality.” Cool. I just like it because it makes my complexion super even and it isn’t heavy-looking like a foundation powder. AND, it’s translucent so it doesn’t involve matching skin-tones. It suits anyone and is super natural-looking. 10. Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 55, $9: When I don’t want to spend the $36 or hunt down the Shiseido spray from #1, this SPF from Neutrogena is a great substitute. [drawattention ID=159838] Name: Grace What I Do at EHD: Design Assistant Skin Type: Combination Pain Points: My skin is pretty clear, but I do get the occasional zit (around that time of the month) and ALWAYS around the same area—near my mouth/chin or the side of my nose. Before, like 5-10 years ago before, it would always clear up on its own as if nothing ever happened. But now, for some reason (or maybe the reason is called turning 30), when it “heals,” it leaves a dark spot that takes MONTHS to fade! Oh, and my skin can get oily so unless I take 1 million hours to do my makeup, it’s just all gone by the end of the day. Beauty Expert Level (scale 1 to 5): 3? Not an expert, but I did go through a phase where I was obsessed with watching makeup and skincare videos on YouTube. Product Wish List: I have this dream of being responsible enough to actually be one of those people with a 10-step Korean skincare routine (it’s a thing), so I’ve been eyeing either the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence or the Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence Rose Edition. I’m also forever on the hunt for that perfect foundation that’s kinda dewy but also kinda velvety matte that would stay on my face all day long! Skincare Philosophy: Less is more! If the minimalist route has been working, why fix what’s not broken? 1. Caudalie Beauty Elixir, $49 for 3.4 oz: Any product that makes me feel cooler and momentarily makes me forget about my disdain for the heat is a favorite in my book. The fact that this spray sets your makeup and also freshens up your face mid-day are just two little bonuses! I recommend getting the mini version so you can take it with you wherever! 2. Glossier Cloud Paint in Beam, $18: Maybe it’s because it’s summer, but I’m currently very into anything coral colored. Historically, this is a color that I shy away from because I don’t think it works for my skin tone, but I tried this on at the newly opened Glossier store on Melrose, and was pleasantly surprised! On my skin, it’s a pale coral blush with a slight luminescence, which I feel gives off just the right amount of summer glow. And because it’s a gel-cream formula, it has really good lasting power on my (kinda oily) skin! 3. Soap & Glory Heel Genius Foot Cream, $9: It literally says ‘Better Than A Pedicure?!’ on the packaging and it is indeed! Especially when you are pressed for time and can’t get to the nail salon, but need your feet to look their softest, smoothest and silkiest selves! Apply to feet at night, pop on some socks, and you’ll be beach/sandals-ready by morning! 4. Maybelline Makeup Superstay Ink Liquid Lipstick in Amazonian, $8: This one is a real game changer, guys! If you can buy only one out of all my picks, this liquid lipstick from Maybelline would be it! This matte lipstick actually does what it promises (“16 hours of liquid matte intensity”) and literally lasts ALL DAY. It also doesn’t feel as dry or as tight as when I’d have Colourpop on my lips. Every lip product out there seriously needs to switch their formula to this one! (I, along with two other friends, have a couple shades and would like more, but our all-time favorite is Amazonian. Go get it now. You’re welcome. 5. Heimish All Clean Balm, $17: The best oil-based cleansing balm that I’ve ever tried for removing eye makeup, hands down! I feel like oil-based makeup removers do a better job of removing makeup, but I really hate the oily residue that it leaves afterward. That is not an issue with this cleansing balm—it removes all the gunk without the icky oily feeling! (P.S. If you have sensitive skin or Malassezia Folliculitis, maybe skip this one.) 6. Origins Peace of Mind On-the-Spot Relief, $14: One thing that you should know about me is the fact that I absolutely 100% abhor the heat, so any product that would give me some sort of immediate relief from it instantly becomes a favorite. This Origins Peace of Mind On-the-Spot Relief is one that I’ve loved for years and even got me through two hot and humid summers in the Philippines. Dab a tiny bit at the back of your neck, temples and earlobes and in less than a minute, the minty formula will cool you off and make you a much more pleasant person to be around! 7. Duo Adhesive Lash Adhesive Dark, $5: I think everyone who has used this will agree with me on this one—Duo is the best eyelash adhesive out there! It’s easy to apply, long lasting, pretty forgiving (aka you’ll have time to readjust) if you mess up putting one of your falsies on, is not irritating or painful when it gets too hot and you start sweating, and most importantly, very easy to remove. I’ve used other glues that were a pain to take off and at the end of the day, one just shouldn’t have to deal with that (one time I thought this other glue had ripped out all of my real lashes and I ended up avoiding looking at my eyes for two weeks). 8. Neogen Real Fresh Foam Cleanser Blueberry, $21: I use this as either my morning or night facial wash depending on what I feel like that day, but definitely always after I use my Heimish All Clean Balm (these two are the only ones left in my skincare rotation from my failed attempt at getting on the 10-step Korean skincare bandwagon). It contains fermented ingredients (a big thing in Korean skincare from what I’ve heard) that are supposed to have many benefits for your skin, makes your face feel so fresh and smooth after, and the best part—it actually smells like blueberries. So good it makes me want to eat blueberries every single time! 9. Eyeko Black Magic Eyeliner, $22: I got hit with a double whammy of eyelid problems (hooded Asian lids and oily lids—never a good combo), so finding a good eyeliner that actually stays on and does not smudge within an hour of putting it on is a tough ask. Enter this Eyeko eyeliner—my holy grail now and forever! It’s got a very fine brush tip so you can be as precise as you want, it’s super black, and stays on not all day, but pretty darn close! I’ve never found any other eyeliner (even those that are highly touted by beauty vloggers) that has worked for me as amazing as this one. [drawattention ID=159832] Name: Jess What I Do at EHD: Blog Assistant/Office Manager Skin Type: Dry…like the desert Pain Points: My skin is really sensitive so I rarely try new lotions or oils because no one likes a face rash. I also have dark circles which are both hereditary (thanks mom AND dad) and caused by my lack of sleep/minimal vegetable intake. This means a good under-eye concealer is non-negotiable. Beauty Expert Level (scale 1 to 5): 3. Not hopeless but could use some help. Product Wish List: I just want to look natural with a little glow (you know, like a sun goddess). But I also want LOW maintenance makeup that I don’t need to touch up throughout the day. I am moving more and more to natural products because well the less harsh chemicals the better. A cup from the fountain of youth would be great, too. Skincare Philosophy: The fancier/expensive it is the better it works right? #easilyinfluenced 1. Blinc Mascara Amplified, $26: Raccoon Eyes might as well have been my nickname ‘til this gem of a mascara came into my life. Due to magic (or science?), this mascara forms tiny tubes around your lashes instead of painting the ink onto them. It sounds weird but go with it. Let’s just say no more nasty rings under those beautiful eyes! 2. Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30, $36: Like I said, I am wary of putting new lotions on my face but this one passed the rash test. Plus, the tint matches my skin tone to give me a nice even glow without needing to put on foundation which I hate. BONUS, it has 30 SPF and is nontoxic. 3. Ilia Satin Cream Lip Crayon in Push It, $24: I just bought this and I love it! It’s the prettiest coral I’ve ever worn and doesn’t give you the dreaded “faded lip liner” look after a couple hours of wear. Not crazy long-lasting but it’s natural so I’m okay with it. 4. Innersense Color Awakening Hair Bath, $26: Natural shampoo is a real hit or miss but this one is awesome. It suds up, smells beautiful and for us “not so natural” hair types, this one protects your expensive color. 5. Kosas Color + Light in Tropic Equinox, $34: In my sun goddess quest, I feel like this creamy highlighter/bronzer combo was a game changer. It’s so pretty and glow-y, easy to use (I was a contour virgin, so phew) and it’s another product that’s natural. 6. OPI Nail Polish in Crawfishin’ For a Compliment, $8: Hi my name is Jess and I like orange. Sorry EHD! Okay, that felt really good to get off my chest and onto my nails because this pale orange nail polish is my perfect shade. Fun but not too loud. 7. Schick Intuition Sensitive Care Razor, $8: When I was 14, I was given this razor for free at the grocery store and I have never looked back. That’s 16 years people. Aside from the annoying commercial jingle, this thing is magic. No shaving cream needed because soap is already around the razor. The refills are expensive but to me, it is SO worth it. 8. Sephora Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick in 01 Always Red, $14: I love a bold red lip and this puppy is seriously the best! Super long wear and matte. I’m never wearing any other red…plus it’s $14. Please and thank you. 9. NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Biscuit, $30: Dear NARS, you may have a ton of toxins in your makeup which is a real bummer, but this concealer is my everything. Maybe one day I’ll eat all the kale and get a lot of sleep but until then, my dark under-eye circles need you. To me…you are…perfect. Love, Jess 10. Wet Brush Classic Brush, $8: I don’t know if your wet hair could win a gold medal in a tangle competition like mine but my life changed FOREVER the day this hairbrush came into my life. If you don’t have one, buy one right now. Yes, I mean it. RIGHT NOW. But P.S. don’t use it with a hairdryer. It will melt. [drawattention ID=159829] Name: Julie What I Do at EHD: Assistant Designer / Project Manager Skin Type: Classic combo…I always have issues with dryness in the morning but then I can use an oil blot sheet in the afternoon and make that thing clear (so gross, but the truth). Pain Points: I have very fair skin with freckles so summertime is not my favorite season. I have to get the annual bad burn before my skin (and myself) accepts the fact that it is 90+ degrees, then the sun and skin become frenemies. Beauty Expert Level (scale 1 to 5): 2.75 (ironically, I went to makeup school back in ’09). Product Wish List: I am a big proponent of drugstore items, finding products that are not only good for my skin and the environment but easy on my bank account. I am as frugal as they come, so products that work well and last a long time are always also my go-to priorities. Skincare Philosophy: Hydration, I try my best to drink a lot of water during the day but is a task I fail to do often. Nothing is better for your skin in my opinion. 1. Majestic Pure Lavender Oil, $17: I’m one of those people that will take a bath over a shower and if you’re a fan of lavender like I am than this oil is AMAZING. Two drops of this stuff and all the stress of the day fades away. One bottle of it lasted me over two years ’til I had about a quarter of it left and it broke in my car when I was moving back to LA. The upside of it is now every time I get into my car, I feel like I am running through a field of lavender. 2. Maybelline Face Studio Master Strobe, $8: My makeup routine is pretty minimal but this product makes the cut. I think of it as my “fancy” item, it’s so easy to use and gives my cheekbones the perfect highlight for that summer dewy look. Just swipe, dab, and go! 3. Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Peppermint Soap, $16: Clean your hair? Check. Wash your clothes? Check. Brush your teeth? Sure, why not. There is a reason why this soap has been around since 1858, it works for everything and on top of that, it’s biodegradable so it is better for the environment than most other brands out there. Plus, it lasts for.ev.er. 4. Pursoma Detox Beauty Jute Dry Brush, $32: The first time I ever tried dry brushing, all I could think is “Why do people do this, it hurts?” More I did it the more addictive it was and I was seeing some amazing benefits. Exfoliates, detoxifies, reduces pores and cellulite…it’s trendy for a reason people. 5. Maybelline Full ‘N Soft Waterproof Mascara, $8: I tried this mascara my sophomore year of high school—that’s 13 years ago—and have never used another one since. Not sure if now I just love it or it’s just routine but it works so well and cheap, why try anything else? #setinmyways 6. Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, $45: This cream does magical things, like transforms your butt back to the baby smooth one it once was (you know back in the day) and transports you to a tropical vacation. It smells so good and is basically the main reason why I buy it time and time again. 7. Dr Teal’s Pure Epsom Salt Soaking Solution, $5: When I used to workout, I loved taking an Epsom salt bath for sore muscles and this coconut scented one makes you feel like your laying in one big pina colada. Hmmm…I’m seeing a theme of products that make me feel like I am on vacation, “Hey guys, I’ll see ya in a week”. ? 8. Green Goo All-Natural Skin Repair, $18: This is my version of a night cream, it helps so much with my dry skin and when I get those bad sunburns. It has all of the good stuff: olive oil, coconut oil, rosehip seed oil, aloe vera oil, basically all the oils, so I don’t feel bad when I slather it all over my face. 9. Mountain Ocean Coconut Skin Trip Moisturizer, $11: By far this is my most coveted product on this list. Speaking of a tropical vacation, I literally get compliments on the coconut smell often. A big pet-peeve of mine is the greasy residue of moisturizer and this one is perfectly lightweight and did I mention it smells delicious??? It is my favorite part of my morning routine. And because sharing is caring, PLEASE chime in in the comments with some of your own recommendations, holy-grail type beauty and skincare products you just can’t live without. Oh, and if there is anything you’ve been dying to try but haven’t gotten to, let us know, too. Maybe we can collect all of those requests, do a big slather-all-over-out-bodies-in-the-name-of-blog-science party and report back with our thoughts.