our favorite moisturizers to combat the dry season – 6 women, 6 different faces, only what works

Fashion & Beauty

Our Favorite Moisturizers To Combat The Dry Season – 6 Women, 6 Different Faces, Only What Works

Drescription

One thing I feel most of us can agree on is the desire for hydrated skin. Sure, there are more important things in this world to think about but as we head into fall and then winter (dun, dun, duuuuunnnnnn), most of us are going to need to put some extra focus on moisturization. I myself have fairly dry skin but also have a bit of an issue with milia (those little white bumps that you can’t pop, DO NOT TRY). This means I need a decent amount of hydration but have to be careful about using oils (due to possible congestion/milia). Also, exfoliating is key but enough about me. Other gals on the team have totally different needs! So we decided to have a little dish sesh on what our favorite moisturizing products are that help make our faces feel their best. I mean moisturized skin is happy skin, right? Let’s get into it.

Emily

Skin Type: Very Dry

As you know I have very dry skin, but also smallish pores which sounds good but it often means that it’s hard to get the moisture inside. I have to gently exfoliate a lot (I love the Pixie pads) and then I slap my face with 1/2 a vial of this hyaluronic acid (and Vitamin C serum of the same brand) and let that soak in. I still love ExfoliKate because of the immediate results that I get (smooth, glowing, soft, etc) but I change the moisturizer that I put on top of my ISIDN often. I have sensitive skin and will break out if it’s too thick but it’s also dry and I want something so moist (clearly I need help and no I don’t go to a dermatologist, but probably could). Anyway, these capsules make my skin so happy.

Caitlin

Skin Type: Dry & Super Sensitive

Lazy, lizard-skinned gals, this one is for you: after years of trial and error, I’ve whittled down my routine to TWO STEPS. Step one: this gentle oil cleanser that simultaneously exfoliates and moisturizes – it’s extraordinary. Not stripping, naturally derived, and it can remove makeup, too! I keep mine in the shower and use a few pumps every time I’m in there.

Step two: this all-in-one serum that (actually) replaces EVERY OTHER PRODUCT. It’s pretty pricey (though you can grab the travel size for $20 now!) and the dropper needs improvement (it can be a little difficult to use), but otherwise, IT’S MAGIC. 100% natural, lightweight, moisturizing, brightening, skin-clearing – the chemist behind this deserves a medal. I throw it on damp skin 2x per day and the scaly, sensitive patches on my face have disappeared!

And I can’t say enough about these sheet masks – they’re Korean, recommended by my local skincare store (and I live in Koreatown, so I’m getting the good recs right from the source!), and they lock in moisture unlike any other mask I’ve ever tried. I love bringing them on flights, on girls’ nights, or just throwing one on as a special treat after one of those full-body super-showers:)

Arlyn

Skin Type: Is “Can’t Make Up Its Mind” a skin type? No? Okay then…combination. Oily in the T-zone, sometimes dry around my eyes and cheeks

In a shocking turn of events, my face has been so dry lately (a drastic change from the oil slick it tends to be in these swampy months). I had just reupped my everyday moisturizer so I didn’t want to buy another one and waste this one. Instead, I bought this wonderful and affordable rosehip oil to layer underneath my moisturizer and I really, really love it. My face feels so well hydrated, not the least bit greasy (even if I get a little heavy-handed) as it absorbs so fast, and it wears great under makeup. I use it day and night, and have also been rubbing it into my hair ends when needed as well as my cuticles. It’s lovely and super affordable!

When my face is acting normal, my everyday moisturizer on its own really really great—plus it’s available at Target, which is so easy and accessible. It blends in and absorbs super fast, leaves my face feeling pretty well balanced (unless I’m using another product that is drying), doesn’t break me out, and works well day or night. Oh, it’s also great under makeup since my skin absorbs it, rather than sitting on the skin surface like some others I’ve used.

Jess

Skin Type: Normal to Dry

I’ve now been using Dieux’s New Air Angel Collagen & Peptide Hydrating Gel Cream for almost two months and I have been SO happy with it. It feels so great going on the skin and doesn’t feel heavy at all. Sometimes with lighter gel creams they just don’t hydrate enough but for me, this has been just the right amount. I do plan on buying their Instant Angel Lipid-Rich Barrier Repair Cream with Ceramides, which is richer, for these upcoming dryer months when I know I’ll need it. So glad I finally tried this brand and plan on it being a keeper:)

If you are looking for a lighter, overnight mask, this mask from Youth to the People is great! I always love how my skin looks and feels when I wake up and it’s so easy to sleep in. It drys fast and just feels like a thickish moisturizer.

Then this is not a rec (yet) because I haven’t tried it but apparently this eye cream is great for people who deal with milia! Anyone have any thoughts or reviews? Please let me know!!

Mallory

Skin Type: Combination

I have combo skin (oily in the T-zone but dry everywhere else) and typically, I switch between 3 different moisturizers. If I’m feeling fancy I use this guy in the morning and then this guy at night. The Olay one has vitamin c and is so creamy and luxurious plus my makeup glides right over it. The Neutrogena one is VERY hydrating which I love for before bed and it makes your skin real dewy. If I’m feeling like I don’t wanna spend that much on lotion though/sometimes you just need an everyday bare necessity lotion and that’s this guy. Tried and true. CeraVe never does me wrong so I always travel with the small bottle of this:)

Gretchen

Skin Type: “Normal” but can definitely lean oily

For me, I like a moisturizer that gives me hydration without leaving me feeling greasy. This stuff from The Ordinary has been working great for me for a while now. It comes out pretty thick, and a little goes a long way, but once it’s on the skin it feels so smooth and light. I love that it comes in such a big tube at such a low price point. I haven’t had to repurchase yet, but won’t hesitate when the time comes!

We hope this quick little roundup of what we love/works for our skin helps!! If you have any moisturizers you love drop them in the comments (and if you could add your skin type that would be extra helpful:))

Love you, mean it.

I Tried On All Of The New Boots At Target And These 8 Are My Favorite

I’m clearly no stranger to the joys of Target but after hearing all of the internet chatter about how good their fall boots currently were, naturally, I had to go see myself. A little field research to help give any of you looking the real lowdown:) I have to say before we get any further, Target is doing something pretty special in the comfort department. It’s good, y’all! Oftentimes with affordable shoes, comfort isn’t always the top priority for the maker, just style. Not the situation here. Whether it’s memory foam or just a well-cushioned insole, your feet are going to be happy, thus making you happy. But they’ve really got some awesome styles too (duh) so let me take you throw my thoughts, feelings, and recommendations. Kenzi Tall Western Dress Boots With Memory Foam Insole – $45 Ok, these really took me by surprise. I was very impressed by all of the detailed stitching and how lengthening for the leg they are. Truly so good. There are plenty of more affordable knockoff cowboy boots that are cheesy but these aren’t. They are actually really good and are really comfortable. I’m a big fan of a memory foam insert as previously stated! Will they last as long as a traditional real leather boot? Probably not. But if you take care of them they will definitely last you a good amount of time. Final Verdict: I really do love these and recommend them. I would easily pay more than $45. This is the perfect way to enter into the cowboy boot trend (which is also a classic…win-win) if you’ve been wanting to! Livia Stovepipe Tall Boots – $45 Here’s what I’ll say – These have a really nice shape, are streamlined, but boxy up top. Because of the heel, they feel more like city shoes to me but if you are a heel wearer then you might love that about them! The only real downside is that without care, I’m a little worried they’re a “one-season boot” based on the leather. Jess loved them when she saw the pictures and I do like the shape of the toe. For me they weren’t a “hell yes” but I think it’s mostly based on my lifestyle. Hope Tall Boots – $45 But these guys are a different story! Look at them, SO CUTE. You might know by now that I love an equestrian vibe. Plus, I love the structured front and think it would be so cute on everyone. Oh, and they are so so comfortable. I didn’t buy them but do I need to go back and change that?? So easy to grab and go for the colder seasons and still look so cute (which at times is a challenge when you are all bundled). Rebel Tall Moto Buckle Boots – $50 These are the knockoff motorcycle boots that people are really talking about. I do have to say VERY comfortable. I have wider feet and these are perfect if you also need a little extra width. Plus, (like most of these boots) I was not expecting the cushion that’s provided in these very rough and tough-looking boots. It’s easy to assume that a heavy, affordable boot is going to be well, not that comfortable. Y’all these are really comfortable. Totally recommend. Want a little more edge to your wardrobe? These are a pretty cool and easy way to do that:) Oakley Harness Boots With Memory Foam Insole – $45 These are the Frye knockoffs which I have to say are pretty great. My beef with my vintage Frye boots (that I can’t seem to quit – I never wear them but I’ve had them for 20 years) is how heavy they are – making them pretty uncomfortable. These from Target are lighter-weight and very comfy. Will they last as long as the real deal ones? Nope, but if you want the Frye boot look for FAR less and a lot more comfortable, I can say that I was shocked and impressed by these. Logan Lug Combat Boots With Memory Foam Insole – $40 Speaking of really heavy shoes, that’s one of my problems with traditional Doc Martin’s. Just so heavy. But overall they aren’t really my personal style but are so great on other people whose style they are perfect for. The great thing about these knockoffs is that they are so much lighter than real Doc Martin’s which I love. And you bet the memory foam makes them also very comfortable. Lonnie Kitten Heel Stretch Ankle Boots – $35 If you remember from last fall, I got a VERY cute pair of Madewell tan kitten heel boots that I wore all of the time. Those ones ran about $200. So when I saw these for only $35 I was very interested. They are really cute, have that class dainty kitten heel look, really lengthen the leg with that pointed toe, are comfortable, and simply just great. Nothing negative! Oh, but one important thing to note is that they tuck really nicely into jeans. The jean/boot combo dream:) Mona Rain Boots – $30 Oh man, if they had had my size I would’ve probably snagged these! So great for the rainy weather that’s coming and perfect for the farm. They didn’t feel too heavy and the quality was great for a rainboot. Ugh, I might need to order them online as I’m pretty sure I just talked myself into them. Cute but very practical. Ok! Eight great, affordable boots (some I preferred more than others) that could help you get through fall and winter a little more stylish (if you are in the market). Happy boot shopping!

Why You Should Never Cover Your Tree Roots Above Ground, An Arborist Says

Covering a tree's roots above ground can limit the tree's access to oxygen and moisture which helps them grow and stay healthy. Avoid cutting, trimming, or removing tree roots because it can make the tree woody and unstable, especially during storms. To discourage root growth at the surface level, try using mulch to cover the roots, loosen compacted soil, or hire a pro arborist. Despite their seemingly breezy maintenance requirements, trees can be tricky to care for especially if not done properly—this also extends to their root systems. Is it better, for instance, to cover tree roots or leave them alone? To gather these answers and more, we reached out to an expert tree arborist to share their best insights. Meet the Expert Eric North is a certified arborist and urban forestry program manager at the Arbor Day Foundation, the world’s largest tree-planting nonprofit planting trees. Should You Cover Your Tree Roots Above Ground? No, you should not cover the tree’s roots. according to Eric North, a certified arborist and urban forestry program manager at the Arbor Day Foundation. “Oxygen and moisture are typically most available to tree roots in the open pore spaces of the upper soil, often in the upper 18 to 24 inches,” he explains. So, the deeper you go, the more compact the soil gets, which means less space for the oxygen and moisture tree roots need. If you cover the tree’s roots, the tree will only work harder to reach closer to the soil’s surface to reach water and nutrients. All the more reason not to cover your tree’s roots. “The exception to this is when soil erosion or any other disruption to the soil environment exposes fine roots that had been below the soil surface,” North explains. In cases such as these, you can add some soil to cover any newly exposed roots. Want more gardening tips? Sign up for our free gardening newsletter for our best-growing tips, troubleshooting hacks, and more! Don’t Cut Your Tree Roots But above all, don’t trim your tree’s roots. Avoid trimming, cutting, or removing tree roots when the tree is young or old. “As roots continue to age, they become woody and their primary role changes to providing energy storage and stability for the tree,” North says. So, damaging even old roots can kill the tree’s roots, result in a reduction in the tree’s growth, or lead to unstable trees that will need to be straightened or else may fall down during storms. What to Do Instead It’s normal for roots to want to be near the soil’s surface. North explains how when roots grow near or at the soil surface, it’s typically because that’s where the most ideal conditions exist. However, there are several things you can still do to discourage root growth at the surface level. Correct the soil conditions at the time of planting. Loosen compacted soil and add in some new organic matter (such as compost). Hire a certified professional arborist to improve compacted soils and encourage root growth below the soil surface. Professional arborists have tools that use pressurized air to blow away and loosen soil without minimal damage to existing roots. Cover the tree roots with mulch. This will help the soil retain moisture while remaining covered by the mulch. Are Exposed Roots a Sign of Good or Poor Tree Health? Trees have adapted to a wide range of conditions, and their roots spread out to help them find the most nutrients. Above-ground roots are not necessarily indicators of tree health, North says. However, they can be a reasonable indicator of soil conditions. “Surface roots frequently form when soils are heavily compacted or there is a high-water table,” North says. Both situations can impact your tree’s ability to gather water and nutrients. Are Some Trees More Prone to Above Soil Roots? Yes, some tree species are genetically prone to producing shallow roots, North says. This can include such species and varieties as Ficus, mountain spruces, and trees adapted to areas prone to flooding. “In this latter case, the shallow roots nature is likely an evolutionary adaptation to manage limited resources,” he says.

Stanley's New Tumbler Collection Might Be Its Prettiest One Yet—and Features a Leak-Proof Design

It's not often we get fired up about new drinkware—unless it's a special launch from Stanley, of course. The innovative lifestyle brand just unleashed its most beautiful collection yet, the New Frequency line: a variation of ocean- and sherbert-inspired tie-dye graphics and sweet glittery shades. The shimmer hues even feature stunning contrasting details that enhance their beauty with a little personality. All four colors are available in the 30- and 40-ounce Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler and new leak-proof Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler models. According to the brand, the collection was created to help "bring a fresh energy inspired by the motion and flow of your days" while emphasizing "harmony and self-care." Both versions include Stanley's coveted double-wall vacuum insulation, which keeps your drink cool for up to 11 hours. Plus, it's sized to fit most car cup holders, so you can easily take it on the go—and is dishwasher-safe and BPA-free. The FlowState tumblers feature a three-position lid, so you can drink it with a straw, without a straw, and also offer the option to twist the silicone cover securely. On the other hand, the Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler is Stanley's leak-proof design and features a built-in straw you can flip up to use and back down to shut when it's not in use, making it the ultimate option for everyday use. Whether you need an option for your gym or work bag, you can't go wrong with the ProTour line. It's also important to note that the gorgeous periwinkle shimmer style has sold out in all of the variations except the 30-Ounce Quencher, so if you're interested in any of the designs, you should move fast. We can see the other selling out just as fast. Keep scrolling to see the rest of the new collection below, and grab your New Frequency Stanley Tumbler before it's too late. Stanley 40-Ounce New Frequency Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler Stanley 30-Ounce New Frequency Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler Stanley 40-Ounce New Frequency Quencher ProTour Flip Straw Tumbler Stanley 30-Ounce New Frequency Quencher H2.O FlowState Tumbler Stanley 40-Ounce New Frequency Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler

How to Revive Near-Dead Petunias and Save Your Yard in the Process

Depending on where you live, petunias are probably a summer staple in your flower beds. They’re a reliable pop of color, and they tend to thrive in a variety of conditions. As long as they’re in a sunny spot and watered regularly, petunias are generally considered low-maintenance plants. As the summer goes on, it’s not uncommon to catch your petunias drooping and dying—especially if you’ve faced a summer of extremes—but with a few handy tips you might be able to revive your near-dead petunias and bring them back to thrive until the season ends. Deadhead Any Lost Blooms One of the best ways to help a struggling petunia plant is by deadheading; this is the process of removing any dead or faded flowers from the plant. Deadheading petunias both encourages more blooming and immediately fixes the look of your plant. The reason it encourages more flowers to bloom is because the plant can focus its energy on new life, rather than trying to revive spent blossoms. You can do this either with proper shears, or by simply picking off the dead flower with your fingers. Want more gardening tips? Sign up for our free gardening newsletter for our best growing tips, troubleshooting hacks, and more! Prune the Dried Foliage Another way to perk up your petunias is with pruning. This is similar to deadheading (it serves the same purpose), but instead of tackling the dead flowers, you go for the dead leaves. Along with cleaning up the look of your plant, you’re also helping it direct its energy toward new, fresh growth. While pinching off flowers is an option for deadheading, you’ll need proper, sharp shears for dealing with the foliage. It’s also important they’re clean, as otherwise you run the risk of spreading disease to the plant. Adjust Your Watering Schedule Depending on where you live, petunias don't require too much attention, but they still need regular watering. If you notice your plants look dire, have a peek at your watering schedule. You might need to make adjustments. While petunias planted in the ground can go longer, anything in a pot needs daily watering. But you don’t want to over-water your petunias, either. If your plants look parched and crispy, amp up the water. If the leaves are yellow and the plants are drooping, slow it down. Ensure Proper Drainage Along with taking note of whether or not your petunias are drooping and looking yellow, you also need to beware of root rot. This is when the roots of your petunias become waterlogged, and it’s the most fatal effect of over-watering. If you suspect your petunias are at risk, they might need removing or relocating into fresh soil that can ensure good drainage. If you plan to repot in the same container, make sure you clean and disinfect the pot thoroughly to avoid the spread of any mold or mildew that might have started to accumulate. Fertilize the Soil Petunias are considered heavy feeders, which means they benefit from fertilizers. Slow-release options are great, and can be used both in the ground and when petunias are planted in pots and containers. Along with reviving your plants, fertilizing petunias can also help with more abundant blooms and a longer growing season. If you don’t want to invest in special fertilizer, you can try making your own compost, or adding banana peels or coffee grounds to the soil. Move Into Full Sun Petunias thrive with the right amount of sunlight, so check the light levels if you find your blooms aren’t full or abundant. You should aim to provide these plants with at least six hours of direct sunlight a day, although eight or more is ideal. If your plants are in containers, this should be easy enough to resolve—simply move the pot. If you’re dealing with grumpy petunias in the ground, it’s likely time to relocate. Some shade is fine, but a sunny spot is an absolute must if you’re hoping to perk your plants up enough to see more flowers. Offer Protection From the Elements As a final potential problem for your petunias, consider their exposure to any extreme elements. Blistering sun with no water is an obvious problem, but petunias can also be sensitive to strong winds—especially any varieties with more delicate blooms. Keep an eye out, too, for any potential pests. Petunias are prone to attracting aphids and slugs, while rabbits and deer might also snack on these blooms. If you notice any signs of an invasion, consider moving or protecting your plants to help bring them back to life.