After a week of scrolling through hundreds of Nordstrom beauty deals, I’ve officially determined that the best savings are in the body care section. And you know what? As they should be. I’m relishing in walking around New York City in my favorite long shorts and summer dresses, with weekends spent at the beach to soak up all that delicious sunshine while we still can. That means my skin from head to toe is seeing more environmental exposure (and, sadly, sun damage), so nourishing and repairing products are a must. From hand creams that leave me looking like I just came from a luxury manicure to foot masks that pamper my tired heels after a day of traipsing around the city, the best body care deals at the 2026 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale will leave you looking and feeling like a summer siren—glowy, hydrated, and utterly relaxed.

Keep scrolling for the 10 body products I’m scooping up during this year’s sale.

From Hand to Toe

Your feet and hands take a beating during the summer months, so it’s the ideal time to indulge in a few targeted treatments to soften and smooth the skin.

Cream de la Cream

I always, always, always apply lotion after a shower, no matter the season, and—not to brag—everyone always comments on how soft my skin feels. Just saying…

Sunshine Staples

Summer means more sun exposure, obviously, so restocking my body SPF is non-negotiable. Remember—UV damage is the number one cause of premature skin aging!

Smell You Later

Listen, I’m a sweaty gal, and that’s okay—it means I regulate my body temperature like a pro. But I also don’t mess around with my deodorant, which is why I’m buying a few refills during the sale so I’m always well-stocked.

Wash the Day Away

Is there anything better than a refreshing shower after a day out in the sun and heat? I’m making sure my bathroom is stocked up with my go-to body washes to help my shower feel like a luxury spa experience.

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The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has finally arrived and I’m strapping in for over two weeks of incredible savings, especially when it comes to my beauty routine. We’re still in high summer, my friends, and my highlighted blonde hair, temperamental skin, and sweat-proof makeup routine all need a few goodies to beat the heat and UV exposure. Luckily, this year’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is, dare I say, the best one yet. Some of my favorite brands are offering steep discounts, from skincare heroes like Dr. Diamond’s Metacine and Allies of Skin, to makeup must-haves like NARS and Bobbi Brown. And the hair deals? Squeal. Pretty much every high tech gadget to help with everything from hair loss (with Higher Dose) to all-in-one styling (from Dyson, of course). Plus all of the dreamiest body care staples, from Salt & Stone to Supergoop! have got you covered and smelling delicious for the rest of the summer.

So, with the start of the sale underway (although you have until August 9th to shop) here’s everything I’m adding to my cart from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale this season.

Skincare Staples

You know I’m not about to let my favorite skincare products pass me by when they’re on sale, right? I’m searching for refills on my most tried-and-true formulas to keep my skin glowing all season long.

Makeup Must-Haves

While I consider myself a makeup minimalist, I won’t lie and say I ever leave the house totally barefaced. Where’s the fun in that? This sale is the ideal time to scoop up some of my favorite glam necessities.

Hair Heroes

My long, blonde, wavy hair may look effortlessly beachy, but it’s decidedly not low-maintenance. I’m looking for repairing products to protect against damage and styling staples to make my routine quick and easy.

Body Care Baddies

Remember, skincare doesn’t stop at your neck! I love pampering my skin from head to toe with luxe, hydrating, and targeted body care formulas both in and out of the shower.

Fragrance Favorites

Sure, my perfume collection might be nearing the 100-bottle mark but that doesn’t mean I’m not scoping out the fragrance deals this sale season. Summer scents are some of my favorites to layer, which means a new addition or two feels like a must.

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All it takes is one morning stroll down the streets of New York to understand that I’m definitely not the only person who missed the sandals section of her closet. The winter was brutal (I have the lingering eczema marks on my cheeks to prove it), which meant that I—and everyone else in the northern hemisphere—welcomed summer’s arrival with eager open arms, and plenty of open-toed footwear. Whether you land on the Birkenstock side of the sandal spectrum or wouldn’t be caught dead in less than a four-inch heel, the fact remains that the feet, and the toes, are out to play, and that means summer pedicures are an absolute must.

Sure, the bare nails trend continues to reign supreme for your fingertips, but frankly, I feel a little exposed when my toenails are totally sans polish. Even if I’m feeling particularly minimalist, I’ll hit them with a quick swipe of clear or jelly polish before walking out the door. Since I also know that treating myself to a pedicure is one of those rare moments of total relaxation—for at least 30 minutes—I’ve been scouting for the shades the most stylish women in the city are wearing this season. Keep scrolling for the five hottest summer pedicure trends.

Bright Whites, Big City

It took me a while to embrace the white nail polish look, but now that milky polish is everywhere, I finally feel like I’m ready to join the (very chic) club.

Flaunt It French

Whoever said that French tips on the toes are passé hasn’t spent enough time strolling through Brooklyn. Every enviably dressed woman had the classic design peeking through her mesh flats.

Moody Mauve

Mauve nails had a major moment this spring, and I’m happy to see that the cool-girl shade has stuck around for the summer.

Pretty In Pink

Think that pink isn’t for you? Try a chrome finish for an unexpected twist on the sweet shade.

Dare to Bare

Like I said, bare nails are everywhere right now, but I, and many of my beauty editor friends, have taken to swiping on a clear or barely-there polish to elevate the look.

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As much as I was looking forward to summer during the long, dark, frigid days of winter, the heat wave striking New York City is taking me down. Even a quick jaunt to get coffee across the street from the office leaves me with dribbles of sweat down my face, while my hair clings to the back of my neck like an unwanted wool blanket. Sure, I could give into the 100+ temperatures and just walk around with a bare face (plus plenty of sunscreen, of course) and my wavy hair pulled into a messy top knot at all times. But where’s the fun in that? The sun is shining, the sunsets are gloriously late, and all I want to do is sit on a shaded patio with a few friends, eating chips and guac and sipping a margarita or two—without my face melting off. No heat wave is going to steal my glam, which is why I’ve discovered a few essentials to still look extremely hot without feeling hot—as long as there is a quick escape into some A/C nearby, of course.

Whether I’m prepping for a day at the office or a night out, my makeup must feel lightweight, breathable, and resist the pull to melt down my face in a few hours. I also keep a few extra essentials in my summer tote to cool me down as I’m walking around the city—hopefully on my way to the ferry to reach the beach for the rest of the day. So, if you’re also battling brutal summer temperatures, here’s everything I swear by in my heat wave beauty routine.

Prep Is Everything

I never leave my apartment with deodorant in the summer, and I similarly always apply a longwear primer to keep my makeup locked in place until the end of the day.

Lusciously Lightweight

While there are plenty of beautiful summer foundations to choose from, I tend to lean towards a skin tint in this type of heat. I want that blurring finish without covering up my freckles or clogging my pores.

Set It and Forget It

A setting spray is non-negotiable when it’s this hot outside. The current best-sellers on the market are so freaking good that I can’t believe I used to skip this step. Never again!

Powder Power

When the temps hit the upper 90s, a little excess shine is inevitable by midday. That’s where a powder sunscreen comes into play. Fresh SPF protection and mattifying benefits? Perfection.

Keep It Cool

Sometimes, there’s only so much that makeup products can do to keep you feeling cool in the heat. That’s when I turn to a few extra tools to lower my body temp and keep my glam looking fresh.

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There’s a whole lot of chatter happening about the “rich bare nails” trend at the moment. Like many beauty trends of the 2020s, it began on TikTok with a handful of creators sharing their naked nails and how they feel so much chicer sans colored polish or pricey in-salon designs. The argument, from a cultural perspective, is that given the prevalence of standing nail appointments, the scarcity mindset that anoints what’s luxurious and what’s not has finally tipped manicured nails into the passé category, while bare or barely there nails are crowned the ultimate luxury. Valid? Ehhhh, it feels like a stretch to me. I love a cat eye manicure with sparkles and squiggles as much as the next girl in my Brooklyn salon. But I’m also in a budget-friendly mindset at the moment, and nixing the $120 I spend every three weeks sounded like a nice idea for the summer. It’s why I’ve finally perfected my at-home manicure routine for short natural nails.

Again, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with sticking to your personal style when it comes to your nails, but for me, after a few years of endless gel manicures, my nails, and my wallet, deserved a break. So now my Sunday nights are spent sitting on the floor in front of my coffee table, carefully buffing, filing, clipping, moisturizing, and generally babying my nails so they look like I came straight from the manicurist chair. Is it time-consuming? Perhaps, but an hour of nail maintenance has become something of a restorative ritual for me, and honestly, I’m thoroughly enjoying both the look of my clean nails and the tactile practice of setting down my phone, queuing up one of my favorite TV shows, and treating myself to an at-home manicure—for free. Here’s everything I use for the perfect at-home bare nail care routine.

Casually Clip

I wore my nails XXL for years, but I’ve finally discovered that I actually like a short nail tip with a rounded square edge. It’s easier to type and breakage is at a minimum. I just clip away the excess at the start of my mani routine.

File This Away

Filing my nails is an art, since I’m very picky about the shape. I use a glass file since it’s gentler and more hygienic than your traditional emery board.

Careful Cuticle Care

The cuticles are key to an at-home manicure, and I use a two-part system to make sure that mine look flawless.

Buff, Buff, Moisturize

With minimal polish to disguise imperfections, I make sure to go the extra mile for my nail beds and buff them into a smooth finish, then add an extra layer of moisture to prevent hangnails and minimize breakage.

Barely-There Polish

If you’re really after the naked nails look, you obviously don’t need any polish at all, but I love to reach for either a glossy jelly option or a nude matte to give my manicure a little extra oomph.

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I have been every single shade of blonde under the sun, minus straight-up platinum (my hairstylist, Colleen Flaherty, refuses to take me there). Buttery, golden, neutral, ashy, all-over, balayage, foils—you name the shade and technique and I’ll show you a picture of myself from the last decade with my hair bleached that shade. Aside from a momentary dalliance with red a few years ago, and a high school-era box of dark brunette dye, I am firmly and resoundingly on team blonde; however, that doesn’t mean that the color isn’t high-maintenance. Highlights aren’t for the faint of heart, which is why I keep an evolving roster of blonde care products stocked in my bathroom to keep my color bright, brass-free, and protected from any further damage (aside, you know, from the three-times-a-year bleach).

From gentle, hydrating shampoos and conditioners to overnight serums to heal and prevent breakage, my favorite products for blonde hair run the gamut, but one thing is for sure—together, they help my color of the moment look as radiant as possible, with minimal frizz or split ends in sight. Keep scrolling for my must-have products for bleached blonde hair.

Always Purple Shampoos

There’s nothing more quintessentially blonde care than a stellar purple shampoo. Counteract brassy tones with a once-a-week wash to keep your color brilliant.

Ultra-Moisturizing Conditioners

Blonde hair tends to fall on the dehydrated side, so make sure that your post-shampoo care includes a deeply nourishing and hydrating conditioner.

Touchably-Soft Treatment Serums

Just like a serum for your face, these treatments add a little extra boost of nourishing and repairing ingredients into your hair care routine.

Hallelujah, Hair Oils

One of my favorite ways to add a little extra nourishment to my parched blonde hair is to apply a few drops of hair oil to the ends. It’s also a great way to smooth away excess frizz in the summer heat.

UV? No Way

It may not be top of mind but low-key, the sun is one of the top culprits for turning blonde hair brassy and damaging fragile strands. Add some UV protection to your hair routine to keep your color bright all summer long.

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Y’all, it’s hot outside. As in, a walk down the sidewalk for more than two blocks feels like you’re entering an oven—that type of heat. I really don’t do well in boiling temperatures. It’s why I keep a roster of cooling products on my person at all times from late May to early September. But on the days when it’s simply too hot to commute anywhere—unless it’s straight to the beach or pool—I make it my mission to post up inside and enjoy the A/C, a good book, and copious snacks (fresh watermelon, anybody?). Being a true beauty girl, I’ll still make sure to spritz my favorite summer fragrance, specifically a solar perfume, which helps to capture the essence of sunshine and warm weather on the skin, all from the cool and comfortable atmosphere of my Brooklyn apartment.

Not familiar with solar perfumes? Think of how sun-kissed skin smells after a lazy afternoon in the park. Not too sweaty, slightly floral, and warm but not in the gourmand for winter-type of way. In other words, solar scents are sexy, light, and perfect for the summer season. Keep scrolling for ten of my go-to perfumes to wear this time of year.

Fresh and Light

I’m not always in the mood for a heavier scent in the summer, and these summer solars keep things breezy and relaxed with every spritz.

Sexy and Sensual

Although solar fragrances are all about sun-drenched bare skin, these sexy scents kick things up a notch for your summer date nights.

Flirty Florals

The quintessential amber notes of a solar perfume mean it pairs perfectly with additional florals. If you’re new to the solar scent game, this is going to be the easiest place to start—so many options!

Wild and Woody

I’m always drawn to woody scents for their sophisticated and lush notes. Paired with solar perfume’s signature muskiness, it’s the perfect combination—trust me.

Milky and Marvelous

Lactonic perfumes are having a serious moment in 2026, so I’m not surprised to find dozens of options in the solar scent space. It’s the ideal combination for a soft, comforting, yet sultry fragrance.

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Inch by inch, my fragrance collection is taking over my vanity. Glass bottles also perch precariously on every part of my desk at the office, waiting until I find a moment to spritz and assess whether or not I’m bringing them home to join my happy perfume family. Earlier this year, the Marie Claire beauty team spent hours, days, weeks sniffing and spraying the best of the best new fragranced products—we included candles, detergents, cleaning sprays, gift sets and more—to find the 62 winners of the 2026 Fragrance Awards. When I tell you I smelled nearly 1,000 different scents, I’m not kidding. This was a beauty editor’s dream scenario, even if I needed to stick my head out the window a few times to reset my nose during busy testing days.

Of course, fragrance is so subjective, so even though there were six of us ranking the winners, we all had our favorites of the bunch. So, without further ado, these are the 10 fragrances that stole my heart and convinced me to reassess my summer perfume lineup.

Surprise Hits

I have my go-to fragrance brands, but I’m always delighted to discover an unexpected winner. These were just a few of the surprises I found during testing.

The Stalwarts

I knew these scents would be winners before we even started testing—they’re just that delectable.

The Affordable Cuties

Fragrance doesn’t always have to break the bank—even though I love a luxury perfume as much as the next girl. These winners are under $100 and still manage to dazzle.

Luxury Lovers

What can I say? I love a little luxury. These scents are the perfect reminder that you always deserve the finer things in life.

Take It Home

Beautiful scents aren’t just limited to your perfume, as evidenced by the winners of our home care categories. These two immediately stood out to me.

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I spent last week in the skincare capital of the world, Seoul, where there are beauty clinics on every corner, product innovation is light years ahead of the US, and taking care of your epidermis is basically a national pastime. In other words, my checked luggage just barely made it under the weight limit back to New York—and honestly, that feels like I didn’t buy enough. It’s not just skincare that made it halfway around the world with me, either: Korean cosmetics are some of my favorites in the game. This is the culture that introduced BB and CC creams to market, remember, and now pretty much every makeup brand has some version of a glowy skin tint. K-Beauty sets the standard, and our skin, hair, and nails are reaping the benefits. Of course, I couldn’t bring back an entire Korean pharmacy, or clear the shelves of the Olive Young HQ (which is finally available in the States!!!), but I did do some serious damage over my week in the city.

While not every formula is available here just yet (I’m impatiently waiting for the FDA to approve a new sunscreen filter so we can update our SPF game in 2026), many of the brands can be found at your local beauty supply store. Plus, some of the industry’s most popular ingredients, like azelaic acid, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid, remain major players in K-Beauty formulas. PDRN injections, on the other hand? It might be worth booking a flight for an appointment—just saying. Until then, here’s a sneak peek at some of the Korean beauty products that I picked up during my trip to Seoul.

Totally Toner Pads

Arguably one of the most popular categories to emerge from Korea over the last year, toner pads offer many more benefits than just classic exfoliation. From hydration and brightening to firming, better skin is just a swipe away.

Perfectly PDRN

Yes, this is the buzzy salmon sperm ingredient you keep hearing about, and yes, it’s just as popular as you may think in Korea. The options for topical formulas are impressive, but I’m even more relieved to see that some of the brands I bought are actually available online.

Silky Sun Care

If I could have packed an entire suitcase with Korean sunscreens, I would have, but I don’t need TSA enquiring after my mountain of SPF. Still, K-Beauty sunscreens—even the ones that are available here—are elite, without question.

EGF Excellence

In addition to the ubiquitous PDRN, epidermal growth factor products lined the shelves at Korean pharmacies, and honestly, I’ll try anything that promises to promote more collagen and elastin production for youthful, bouncy skin. These are a bit harder to find in the States, but not impossible.

Boldly Barrier Repair

One of the most important principles of K-Beauty is to minimize skin barrier inflammation and keep your epidermis calm, even when you’re using active ingredients. A solid barrier repair cream is a must.

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I’d love to be the type of woman who wears only one signature perfume. No matter the season, she spritzes a singular scent onto her neck and wrists, reminding everyone who’s lucky enough to stand close to her that she always smells delicious. Well, I’m not her, and my collection of 50+ fragrances and I simply cannot stick to just one—and that’s okay! Variety is the spice of life, my friends, and with it comes many, many perfumes to play around with. Given that it’s Memorial Day weekend, and the official start of summer, that signals that it’s time to ditch the floral, sweet, and bright fragrances of spring (gone but never forgotten) in favor of my favorite summer perfumes.

So, what do I gravitate towards this time of year? Well, as a certified sweaty lady, I tend to lean into the musky skin scent of it all, with mineral, solar, and zesty perfumes all taking up prime real estate on my vanity. And given that I’m all about fragrance layering these days, it makes perfect sense to embrace more than one scent for summer. Whether you swap them for day to night or you enjoy concocting your own signature blend, here are the 10 summer fragrances I’ll be wearing until fall.

Mystic Minerals

My happy place is by the beach, so anything with a salty, briny kick is an automatic win for the summer fragrance lineup.

Scintillating Citrus

Who doesn’t want to enjoy a zesty cocktail in a friend’s backyard during the summer? These citrus scents capture that energy perfectly, in perfume form.

Seductive Skin Scents

Designed to sit close to the body, these your-skin-but-better scents are everything you want to wear for a sexy summer fragrance.

Flirty Fig

Speaking of fig notes, I’m already seeing this lush scent run take over 2026 fragrance trends, and I—a longtime fig fan—am more than happy to embrace them for summer.

It’s In the Air

Any perfume that can capture that clean, fresh air feeling when it’s a million degrees outside and the steamy sidewalk vapors are threatening to clog my nose is a major summertime win for me.

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For years I ignored the warnings. Everyone from my assistant editors to my sister-in-law to random strangers on the Internet begged me to break up with my loofah. But I’m one of those people who adores a thick lather from my cleanser in the shower. At a hotel, when I’m forced to use only my hands to apply shower gel (the horror), I’m always left yearning for my beloved plastic poof. Where are the bubbles? How can I possibly be clean?!! Inevitably, however, the anti-loofah propaganda got to me, meaning I saw the evidence of mold and bacteria in my own shower, and I tossed the three-pack still waiting under my sink and searched for a viable alternative. And boy, did I put these tools to the test.

In my search for a loofah replacement, I tried out several different options that could adequately lather my favorite body wash, give my skin a gentle exfoliation without stripping me dry, and would ring out dry quickly and thereby eliminate the risk of mold growing between showers. Trust me, your total body skincare routine deserves an upgrade, especially if you haven’t reconsidered the tool you’re using to scrub since the late ‘90s.

The Humble Washcloth

You know her, you love her, you need a ventilated bathroom in order to dry her out. But I’ve found that newer fabrics help to speed up drying time, and hanging them in a place with air flow and the ability to drip dry is the key to avoid nastiness from growing.

Nifty Net Sponges

Think of this option basically like an unfurled loofah. It dries faster, and it allows you to soap up those hard-to-reach places, like the middle of your back, without doing in-shower yoga.

The Savvy Scrubber

A silicone scrubber has quickly become an essential for my shower routine to not only keep my wash tool hygienic but also help my shower gel bubble up to my heart’s content.

Keep it Konjac

If exfoliation is the goal—I know it is for me once the weather turns warm—then I highly suggest swapping out your shower tool for a konjac sponge. These all-natural sponges are made from the porous root of the konjac plant, and always leave your skin silky soft post-wash.

Perfect Pairings

Obviously your body cleansing tool requires the perfect body wash. This is one of my favorite beauty categories to hoard, but I’ve narrowed it down to two of my current favorites.

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There’s a lot of buzz around the bare nails trend at the moment, and I can understand why—the upkeep of a standing manicure appointment can be a lot for both your time and budget. However, I always feel my best when my nails are polished, either with a simple color or a bold design. It’s a fun little luxury that I’ll always be happy to indulge in year-round. Lately, I’ve been embracing what I consider to be the easiest summer manicure look to convey confidence, style, and general bad b*tch energy: a short red manicure.

Nail shapes and lengths go in and out of style, but they really are a personal preference that should be immune to the ebb and flow of the beauty industry. I spent a long time growing out my naturally strong nails (subtle flex) before I realized that I actually love a short, squoval nail. It just feels the most like me, and it makes typing on a computer all day refreshingly simple—no chipped nails in sight. But finding the perfect shade of red can be tricky when there are so many options out there. A summer red is wildly different from a winter red—think warmer, brighter, and overall zestier. Curious what shades I love for the warmer weather? Keep scrolling for the five best red nail polish colors to try for summer.

Tomato Red

A go-to year-round, but this warm, orange-y red hits especially hard in the summer. Tomato red is a foolproof nail color at its finest.

Cherry Red

If the shade is good enough for Selena Gomez, it’s more than good enough for me. A crisp cherry red shade radiates luxury and good taste.

Candy Apple Red

Bright with a slightly blue undertone, this shade is a favorite for fashion girls for both their outfits and their nails.

Blush Red

If a totally in-your-face red isn’t your vibe, might I suggest a softer, incredibly flirty, blush red hue for summer?

Sangria Red

Don’t think that dark red nails are off the table for summer. Channel the iconic summer beverage with a juicy sangria color.

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It hardly seems possible given that New York City weather is taking its sweet time to finally warm up, but in just a few weeks, summer will be almost here, and that means copious hangs in the park, at the beach, and on patios around Brooklyn. As delightful as that sounds—and I am daydreaming my little heart out in anticipation—I also am fully aware that the needs of my skin, hair, and makeup will be completely different by that time. So, what else is a beauty-obsessed girl to do but pick up a few seasonal goodies at the Amazon Summer Beauty Event?

Running from now until May 10, the sale is featuring some of my favorite drugstore and luxury beauty brands, with savings up to 30 percent off. I’m talking about French pharmacy staples, viral K-beauty brands, and luxury fragrances that I keep collecting until my dresser collapses under the weight of all those bottles. In other words, the sale is good, and the savings (and fast shipping times) can’t be beat. Here’s everything I’m adding to my cart during the Amazon Summer Beauty Event to keep my glam on point for months to come.

Under $500

I always view a sale as a chance to save, so why not look towards the higher-ticket items you’ve been lusting after and finally pull the trigger? Hair and skincare tools are going to be your best bet at this level.

Under $200

Okay, so you want to splurge but your budget is still top of mind? There are plenty of stellar beauty products under $200 to pick up during the sale. Hi-tech wellness tools and fragrance are my go-to at this price point.

Under $100

This is for the savvy shoppers who want to take advantage of all the great savings while still picking up some in-demand brands. Your hair and skin thank you for your still-healthy budget.

Under $50

The peak sale goodies, in my opinion, are in this sweet spot under $50. Some of my most treasured French pharmacy staples fall into this category, so run, don’t walk, to add them to your shopping cart.

Under $25

K-beauty fans, this is where you’ll shine. It doesn’t take a ton of budget to scoop up some buzzy Korean brands—or some stalwart luxury ones, either.

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Although my mom isn’t much of a traditional beauty fan (I didn’t see her wear makeup until I was 14, and even then it felt so weird) she did bestow me with excellent skincare habits from a very young age. She’s a bona fide horse girl through and through, which means she’s constantly out in the sun and exposed to the elements, so she knows a thing or two about taking care of your skin. I credit her not only for good skin genes, but also for instilling in me a sense of care and thoughtfulness around my skincare routine. Even if that just means cleansing, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen in the morning (rinse and repeat at night) every single day, she is the foundation from which I’ve built my own healthy skin habits. So, obviously, I need to spoil her with some skincare goodies for Mother’s Day.

Since she’s 73 and spent her life enjoying the outdoors, antioxidants, dark spot correctors, and moisture boosters are new staples in her regimen. I also love to introduce her to new, high-tech modalities like LED to help maintain her otherworldly glow. Plus, a few refills on her favorite essentials are a must, because taking care of your complexion doesn’t have an age limit, y’all! If you’re also looking for a few beauty gifts to spoil the moms in your life this Mother’s Day, keep scrolling for everything I’m adding to my cart.

Keep It Clean

The best habit I’ve learned courtesy of Momma Bear is to always cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser in the morning and at night. When you’re running around the city, or putting in hours in the barn tending to horses, it’s a must to remove debris and dirt.

Accomplished Actives

Serums are the active-ingredient powerhouses of your skincare routine, and mature skin can benefit from an extra boost of hydration, firming, and toning. If there’s only one item you want to splurge on for Mother’s Day, I highly recommend one of these.

Mega Moisture

Mature skin leans dry on average, but no matter your mom’s skin type, a daily moisturizer is a must. I like to treat my mom with a luxe, more active formula to really pamper her skin.

Sublime Sunscreen

Sun care is non-negotiable, especially for a complexion that already has decades of UV exposure. I love treating my mom to one of the incredible new formulas for an elegant finish that actually leaves her skin looking and feeling better than ever.

Scalp & Hair Saviors

Hair thins as you get older, so creating a healthy microbiome for growth is essential (your scalp is an extension of your skin, remember!). To ensure my mom’s gorgeous silver hair stays thick and full, I’m treating her to a few tried-and-true products to promote growth and strength.

High-Tech Treats

My mom doesn’t always splurge on the beauty tools in her skincare routine, so what better time to shower her with goodies than Mother’s Day?

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I’ve been basking in the glow of all this extra sunshine in New York City as often as humanly possible. Seriously, there is nothing that can boost your mental health like leaving the office while it’s still light out—and arriving back home 40 minutes later, and the sun still hasn’t set. More sunshine, more time spent outside, more forgetting that I’m actually allergic to a ton of trees (but it’s still worth it to go to the park a few times a week because the landscape is so pretty in bloom). Still, I can’t forget that a change in seasons and temperature also means it’s time to take stock of my skincare routine.

Spring is doing her thing, and that means that my skin is craving a whole new set of products and ingredients to feel soft, hydrated, and irritation-free. The heavy creams of the past five months are being relegated to the back of my bathroom cabinet in favor of lighter formulations, my sunscreen application is becoming more diligent, and my double cleansing regimen is back in action since, yes, I’m already starting to sweat on my daily commute. Luckily, a few easy product swaps are enough to maintain clear, glowing skin until summer. Keep scrolling to discover everything I reach for in my spring skincare routine.

Double Cleansing Duo

Between the NYC grime and extra sweat, I return to my double cleaning regimen in the summer to thoroughly reset my skin at the end of the day. A cleansing oil and a gentle face wash are my go-to products to keep my skin healthy and happy.

Mighty Mists

There’s nothing like a refreshing face mist in the morning or even during the afternoon as a mid-day pick me up. It’s a sensorial treat and helps to rehydrate the skin after copious sun exposure.

Breathable Barrier Support

A lightweight moisturizer is a must once spring rolls around to maintain hydration without clogging my pores with extra perspiration and heat.

Silky Sunscreen

Daily sunscreen doesn’t change with the time of year, but I definitely make sure to reapply throughout the day to maintain adequate protection. Using a formula that feels creamy and comfortable on the skin makes that process so much more enjoyable.

Must-Have Masks

I take masking very seriously in the spring when my skin is dealing with any lingering dryness or irritation from the winter and working to stop clogged pores in their tracks. Sunday is face mask day, when I use a duo of deep cleansing or exfoliating masks with something super soothing and hydrating.

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Show me a single beauty obsessive who doesn’t track the sale season like it’s the stock market—or the latest Love Island drama—and I’ll stop using daily sunscreen here and now (the horror!). I basically have a mental rolodex for the best times to maximize my beauty budget at a variety of my favorite retailers. Now that spring is finally here, it’s bringing major savings for my hair, skin, makeup, and body care routines, which is much appreciated given that I feel like a dried-out lizard emerging from a frozen cave. Seriously, the skin is dry and textured, my hair is dull and damaged, and my deathly pale skin is in need of a few new goodies to assure passing strangers that I’m still alive. Yet another reason why I’m assessing my beauty regimen with a particularly discerning eye: I fully plan on scooping up the best products discounted right now at the Sephora Spring Savings Event.

If you’re a VIB Rouge member, you already have access to the sale with 20 percent off. VIBs and Beauty Insiders can shop on Tuesday, April 14, with 15 percent and 10 percent off your purchases. So whether you’re similarly parched from head-to-toe and in need of some deeply moisturizing staples (Sundays are for masking, remember), you decided it’s finally time to invest in a rejuvenating LED mask (on major discount, of course), or you finally admitted that you need to toss those expired mascaras and eyeliners (every six months, my friends!), check out everything I’m shopping for before the Sephora sale ends on April 20.

The Makeup

New season, new glam. I’m always looking for bright, cheerful colors to warm up my complexion this time of year, from lips to cheeks and more.

The Skincare

I know I’m not the only one who has an epidermis in need of some love right now. What better time to restock my skincare cabinet than the spring sale season?

The Body Care

Skincare doesn’t stop at your neck, my friends. My total body care routine is a foundational part of my beauty routine, and Sephora has some seriously good deals to scoop up right now.

The Hair Care

My wavy, highlighted hair is my signature, but also extremely high-maintenance. I swear by these nourishing and styling products to keep my buttery blonde waves looking fresh.

The Tools

What better way to try out a new (and probably slightly pricey) addition to your beauty routine? These are the beauty tools that I’ve tested, love, and can vouch for the value for the price.

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I distinctly remember walking into a Sephora as a teenager and picking up a tube of Smashbox O-Gloss. The violently pink packaging appealed to my rapid-fire hormones, but as soon as I swiped on the clear gloss, I knew that this product was different from its bubblegum-scented counterparts. Eyeing myself in the station’s tiny magnifying mirror, I watched as my lips slowly morphed from their usual deathly pallor to a plump, juicy pink. I looked healthy and put-together, and all I had done was apply a layer of clear lip gloss—or so I thought.

Although that formula is now discontinued, color-changing lip products have been around since the 1980s, and still contain an active ingredient that adapts to the wearer’s pH. It transforms the clear (or sometimes blue or green) product into a personalized pinky shade that is relatively unique to each individual. In other words, it’s a mood ring for your lips; a bespoke lip color without the crazy price tag. It’s also my most foolproof way to add a hint of color to my pout without needing a lip liner or a mirror, or even paying too close attention to color theory with my outfit. It’s the ultimate swipe-and-go lip product, and luckily, the winning formulations just keep on coming in the 2020s. Keep scrolling for the color-changing lipsticks I always keep within arm’s reach for spring.

Luxury Lovers

I’ll admit that I enjoy the finer things in life, so a luxe pH lip product is always going to be a yes for me.

Drugstore Divas

I’m all about saving a few bucks with my lip products, and luckily, there are plenty of high-quality pH lip products at the drugstore.

Beyond the Balm

Although most pH formulas come in a lip balm formula, cosmetic chemists are getting more creative every year, and now there are a ton of alternatives to suit your unique beauty aesthetic.

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For me, blush is the first makeup product to change when the seasons do. Foundation, mascara, contour—those stay relatively constant in my routine. But blush? That’s where I really love to play. The deeper shades that carried me through winter suddenly feel a little heavy on my cheeks, and I start gravitating toward brighter colors that give my skin a little life after its hibernation over the past few months.

Of course, the internet has a few ideas about what that color should be. Lately, TikTok has been obsessed with “Wuthering Heights blush”—i.e., a windswept berry hue across the cheeks and nose that looks romantic and slightly undone. But scroll a little further, and you’ll see a whole spectrum of spring cheek colors taking over feeds: bright corals that wake up the complexion, delicate pinks that mimic a natural flush, cool lilac tones that feel unexpectedly fresh, and warm, sunburnt shades that recreate that just-came-back-from-the-Maldives glow.

Which is exactly why blush becomes so much more fun this time of year. Here are the color families I plan to play with now that spring is in full swing and summer is just around the corner.

Coral Crush

Coral’s pink-meets-orange tone instantly lifts my face and brings color back to my cheeks without making me look overly rosy. On my olive skin, it reads bright, lively, and especially right for spring.

Berry Flush

Deeper than classic pink, berry blush adds a richer wash of color to the cheeks. Think of a super ripe plum, or your fingers after eating blackberries—it’s that pretty jammy color. It’s also the shade behind the Wuthering Heights blush trend making the viral rounds.

Petal Pink

Soft pinks tend to mimic the color of naturally flushed cheeks, which is why they’re so easy to wear. In spring, when makeup often gets a little lighter and fresher, that barely-there flush works for nights out and days I want a lighter makeup look.

Cool Lilac

Cooler undertones set lilac blush apart from traditional pink and rosy shades. The color has been popping up more last year and into this spring, offering a fresh, slightly unexpected take with its hint of purple.

Sunburnt Flush

Somewhere between blush and bronzer, these shades lean terracotta or warm red to emulate the color you get after a little sun (or faking it, because we’re all wearing our SPF, right?!). These shades remind me of a long day after the beach, when your skin looks healthy and kissed by the ocean.

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Fun fact about me: I started my beauty career at Bluemercury’s headquarters. Even though I’ve been a beauty editor for almost a decade, the retailer still holds a special place in my heart. Their product lineup is superior, and, frankly, their sales are among the best in the industry. Case in point: the Spring Beauty Event, which runs from today through Sunday, March 29, offers 20 percent off any purchase of 200 or more. And with purchases of $250 or more, customers get a free nine-piece gift bag valued at $282.

Sales this great are far and few between, especially when they include luxe brands like Tronque, Irene Forte (a new fave of mine), Dr. Barbara Sturm, Anastasia Beverly Hills, and so many more. Plus, this sale genuinely could not have come at a better time. With warmer weather finally creeping in, I’m swapping my rich skincare for lighter, less-oily formulas, and playing with some brighter makeup shades (see: Bobbi Brown’s Skin Enhancer in shade Cheeky Pink). There’s no code; it will automatically be applied at checkout.

Here are the best of the best currently sitting in my cart.

Skincare Staples

My skin is super sensitive and pretty dry, so winter was not-so-fun. But as temperatures near the 60s, I’m tossing my heavy, rich creams in favor of lightweight lotions and hydrating serums.

The Best Body Care

I’m on a body care kick these days, adding little luxuries to my post-shower routine. I use serums, lotions, and tools on my face, so why not give my body the same TLC? I have a lengthier routine I’ll share at a later date, but for now, here are some all-time favorites you won’t regret buying.

Help My Hair Out

I have pretty fine, flat hair, so lightweight hydration and volume are top priority. I’ve been testing dozens of shampoos, conditioners, and styling products to see what helps my hair feel thicker. In my opinion, these are two of the best.

Makeup Must-Haves

With spring approaching, I find myself wearing less makeup and brighter shades. I’ve been gravitating away from medium coverage foundations, heavy concealer, and dark shadows in favor of skin tints, bold blushes, and swipe-and-go brow products.

Don’t Forget Fragrance

Whenever there’s a good beauty sale, I jump on the opportunity to buy fragrance at a discount. This season, I’m swapping gourmands for lighter, airier scents. Citrus and aquatic notes are at the top of my list.

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There are very few things in life that would make me spend upwards of an hour fussing over my makeup (I’m a minimalist gal at heart), but preparing to meet Rihanna at a party in Beverly Hills is definitely one of them. On a recent trip to Los Angeles to celebrate the launch of the Dior J’adore Intense perfume (a new gourmand twist on the iconic fragrance), I was sweating it out in my hotel bathroom trying to figure out the perfect glam to, frankly, breathe the same air as Ms. Fenty. Tragically, the face of J’adore ultimately did not attend the (rather banging) party—the TL:DR is that she had a scary situation at her home with a “fan”—but I am happy to report that my party makeup ended up looking fabulous, if I do say so myself. Better yet? It only took me about 10 minutes to complete, despite stressing out for the other 50.

So, if you’re gearing up for wedding season, have some elegant corporate events, or you just want to join me in manifesting an eventual run-in with Rihanna, here’s my foolproof makeup routine for a glamorous night out. Don’t worry—I tested it by dancing until 2 a.m., like a dedicated beauty editor, and everything still looked pristine by the time I washed my face and crawled into bed.

But First, Fragrance

As soon as I get out of the shower, I add my first spritz of perfume while my skin is still warm. Heat helps with projection so you get a truly enveloping scent. Add one more spray before you walk out the door and you’ll have strangers snapping their necks to get a whiff of you.

LA Skin

If there’s photography and dancing (and eventually sweating) on deck for my evening, I never want my base to feel too heavy. But, if I’m in LA, I also want an impossibly radiant, sun-kissed glow, as if I spend all my time poolside at the Sunset Tower hotel.

Flush Crush

In lieu of any other contour, I rely on a sculpted cheek and lots of blush to brighten up my face. A stain, cream, or liquid formula reads so natural on the skin and feels like you’re not wearing any product at all.

Line Up

Sultry smoky eyes are having a revival courtesy of Paris Fashion Week, and I’m more than happy to reach for my favorite gel eyeliners. I draw on my upper and lower waterline, and then along my upper lash line to smudge and create a soft wing for definition. Add a touch of mascara on the top and bottom to finish it out.

Perfect Pout

For this type of soirée, I’ll spend the extra two minutes to line my lips and buff out my lip color for a perfectly blended lip combo. A deep rose with a corresponding liner (even if it’s not an exact match or from the same brand) is my go-to for evening events.

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I don’t think I’m the only one who’s been experiencing extremely temperamental skin this winter. While my typically calm complexion tends to get super dry from December to March, I don’t usually see a whole lot of other activity. That’s not the case this year. I’ve had my eczema patches jump from my hands to my cheekbones, and a constellation of baby breakouts has taken up permanent residence on my right jawline and cheek. It’s taken weeks of tinkering with prescription creams and targeted treatments (along with several calming facials) to get my skin back to a neutral-ish point, and while we still have a few small pimple clusters and rough patches to address, I’m now left with the remnants of my very reactive winter skin. That means hyperpigmentation, and lots of it, which is where my lineup of brightening serums comes into play.

In case you’re not familiar, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is a certain type of discoloration that happens after skin injury like acne, eczema, or trauma (like picking at said breakouts). Essentially, it’s a deposit of extra melanin, the pigment responsible for your skin’s color, wherever your skin is freaking out. And while the mechanism between skin damage and your melanocytes going into overdrive is complex and a little long-winded, all you really need to know is that making those dark marks disappear (at least faster than they will naturally) takes some key ingredients and a whole lot of patience. In other words, nothing will happen overnight, but my vetted lineup of brightening products will help to lessen unwanted pigment and leave your complexion clear, glowy, and ready for spring.

C the Light

Vitamin C has a ton of data to support its brightening capabilities, and it’s beloved by dermatologists to minimize photo damage (a.k.a. dark spots from UV rays) and uneven skin tone. Overall, it’s generally considered the gold standard for fading hyperpigmentation.

Needing Niacinamide

For a gentle yet effective brightening superstar, you can’t go wrong with niacinamide. These serums are some of my favorites for calming inflammation and smoothing and strengthening the skin barrier, in addition to tackling dark spots over time.

Totally Tranexamic

I’ve predicted this acid’s rise in the skincare space, and I’m thrilled to see so many more options hit the market in the last few months. Bonus? Tranexamic acid also helps to prevent excess pigment triggers in your skin in the first place.

Magic Mandelic

A highly underrated AHA, mandelic acid exfoliates pigmented and rough skin gently and slowly, so the risk of irritation is minimal. But don’t get it twisted—you’ll still see impressive results with consistent use.

Retinol Relief

When it comes to skin renewal, you don’t get much more powerful than a retinoid product. Any of the various forms of vitamin A (from retinol to prescription tretinoin) are going to speed up cell turnover and fade pigmentation as fast as possible.

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I just got back from five days of vacation in the Caribbean, and yes, I’m still mourning the sunshine and warm island breeze. After living in New York for 13 years, I deeply understand that by the time late February or early March rolls around, you 100 percent have to book a trip somewhere warm, for both your sanity and your skin health. For context, my complexion has been battling eczema flares since December, and the hormonal acne popping up along my jawline can be at least slightly credited to stress (and the resulting cortisol spikes) so a week lying on a beach with a piña colada, a smutty romance novel, and a firm zero-email policy was everything I needed to make it through the rest of winter in one piece. But that doesn’t mean I slacked on my beauty treatments pre-travel. On the contrary, I’ve figured out exactly what to book before I ever set foot on the plane to make sure I still look polished, even if the only glam I get into each day is copious sunscreen application.

Hats off to anyone who is game to arrive at their beachside getaway with a bare face and zero pre-treatments, but I’m a longtime beauty editor with high-maintenance hair and skin, and so that will never be me. Still, I don’t exactly love the idea of applying makeup or styling my wavy 2B hair to the same degree as I do back in NYC; nor do I want to look completely blown out or ragged in my vacation photos (vanity, baby, vanity). So, like any good beauty obsessive, here’s everything I suggest doing before going on vacation to look really, really, ridiculously hot—minimal effort required.

A Lotta Lashes

My eyelashes are naturally quite light with a blonde base, so not great for providing definition without mascara. I swear by a lash lift (which is basically a perm) and tint to give me that curl and mascara-level color, without any product, but before I book my appointment, I make sure that my lash density is on point.

Bigger, Bolder Brows

My full brows are my calling card, but again, my hair is naturally on the lighter side. If an appointment to tint and shape them is feasible, I swear by Joey Healy in Manhattan or Kristie Streicher in LA, but if I have to DIY, a stellar pair of tweezers and some beard dye (yes really) are almost as good.

High-Shine Color

I color my hair with camel-coat blonde highlights three times a year, but if I’m not careful, it will turn brassy in the sun. So, before I step foot on a plane, I make sure to do a gloss and toning treatment to keep my blonde bright and beach-ready.

Totally Tanner

I’m a true sunshine baby, but I know better than to sacrifice my health and skin condition for a tan, especially when self-tanner in 2026 is so exceptional. I reach for my favorite formulas a few days before vacation for a gorgeous faux glow.

Hello, Hair Removal

I’m a few years into professional hair removal for my bikini line and underarms, but pre-vacation I make sure to give myself a little touch-up with an at-home hair removal device to nix any strays.

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I am not, historically, the biggest fan of the color pink, and when I go to the nail salon, I typically eschew the more feminine shades for funky navy blue, olive green, or vampy burgundy. But lately I can’t stop obsessing over baby pink nails. Maybe it’s a girlhood hangover from watching Wuthering Heights last weekend, or maybe it’s because I decided to paint my entire apartment, including the ceiling, a soft rosy terracotta so I quite literally wake up in a little blush jewel box in the middle of Brooklyn every day. Either way, baby pink is quickly becoming my favorite spring nail color.

I’ve played around with rose chrome nails and a few pink nail designs in the past, but the pure timeless luxury of a baby pink manicure cannot be ignored. There’s a reason why you’ll often see celebrities walk the red carpet with a set of blush nails—it’s lengthening for your hands and looks good on everyone. Still, not all baby pink polishes are created equal. Whether you lean towards the soft ballet slipper tones or crave a warmer variation, I’m confident that this year’s hottest nail trends will no doubt include this stunning shade. Keep scrolling for my favorite polish options on the market right now, from ultra pale to warm apricot.

Ballet Beautiful

The quintessential ballet-shoe pink shade is basically the GOAT of manicured nails. When I’m feeling overstimulated at the salon, I go with my gut and reach for one of these lacquers.

Pale Rose

Romantic and sophisticated, this pink variation is one of my favorites for both manicures and pedicures. The slightly purple undertones give the color a cool-girl spin.

Pretty Pearlescent

Who doesn’t love a dash of shimmer on their nails, especially once spring rolls around? You deserve a little more sparkle in your life—and on your manicure.

You Gotta Terracotta

A pink terracotta was my inspiration for my apartment, and I have to say, it looks even better on my nails. If you like a warmer pink polish, this shade is for you.

Sheer Perfection

A see-through wash of pink with a high-gloss finish is so pretty on your nails, no matter the season. It’s definitely the fashion-girl secret to an expensive-looking manicure.

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We’re still in the throes of New York Fashion Week, which, admittedly, gives editors free rein to be their most luxurious and indulgent selves. And why not?! For an entire week the city is basically a playground for the best-dressed humans on the planet while designers showcase the upcoming season’s new looks. Not to mention, the industry’s best hair stylists and makeup artists are working their magic on each show’s lineup of models. It’s inspiring, to say the least, and it reminds me that a little bit of extravagance is never a bad thing. That means the best luxury beauty products in my collection are getting some much-deserved airtime.

To clarify: you absolutely do not need to spend a ton of money to curate a quality skincare routine or achieve clear, glowing skin. In fact, drugstore skincare is a staple in my routine, and even an excess of fashion week glamour can’t discount that reality. But sometimes it feels really nice to open up a beautiful jar of moisturizer, or slather on a luxe serum, or sit with an LED face mask while I paint my nails with a designer polish. Is it extra? Of course it is—I’m a Leo, and vanity is our calling card. So why not join me and treat yourself to the best luxury beauty products that money can buy? Go on, you deserve it.

Care-For-Me Cleansers

Cleansing your face is sensorial by nature, and there’s nothing more indulgent than treating yourself to an opulent face wash that makes your morning and evening cleanse feel like a luxe ritual.

So-Worth-It Serums

Serums are the highly concentrated workhorses of your skincare routine, with potent active ingredients that get to work on your skin like nothing else in your product lineup. If I’m going to drop some serious coin anywhere in my beauty budget, it will always be on one of these formulas.

Treat-Yourself Tech

Beauty tools are often the priciest items you can buy, and while they can’t quite deliver the results of an in-office visit to your derm or esthetician, if you use them consistently, they make a noticeable difference in the quality and health of your skin.

Superstar Stylers

Although I’m loyal to my air-dry routine, I also need a few styling essentials on the days when I feel like pumping it up a notch. To retain hair health and not spend hours upon hours in front of the mirror, invest in high-quality hot tools.

Designer Digits

I know that there are hundreds upon hundreds of stellar nail polishes for under $20, but I can’t help it—I’m partial to the little luxury that is a designer lacquer. The color offerings tend to be a little more fashionable, and the tendency to chip is basically non-existent.

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Rarely does a week go by without someone asking me about my skincare routine, and while I’d love to point to a single product or two as the reason behind my glowy complexion, it’s never that simple. Finding a regimen that works for your skin’s unique needs is crucial, and no person has the exact same epidermal requirements. It’s all about listening to your skin (is it dry? Irritated? Oily? Congested?) and using products that can specifically address those issues. But that doesn’t mean you have to obliterate your beauty budget in the pursuit of clear, healthy skin. On the contrary, some of my most-trusted formulas are drugstore skincare products.

Believe it or not, luxury brands often formulate in the same labs with the same ingredients as drugstore options—it’s really the branding, packaging, and sometimes, the concentration of the ingredients that jacks up the price. Which is totally fine! I love keeping a beautiful jar of luxe moisturizer in my bathroom cabinet; it makes me feel chic and pampered. Still, if maximizing your beauty dollars is top of mind, you truly can’t go wrong with drugstore skincare. Here’s everything I love to scoop up when I’m roaming the aisles, whether IRL or online.

Classic Cleansers

If there’s one category that the drugstore beauty brands of the world have nailed, it’s a stellar cleanser. Whether you want an acne-fighting option or a gentle, hydrating face wash, there’s practically no limit to the number of options to try.

Terrific Toners

Toners can fall under two main categories: a hydrating essence-style formula, or a chemical exfoliant. Whichever option your skin needs, you can find a great budget-friendly option.

Superstar Serums

Granted, this is where you might spend the most money, but a drugstore serum is still going to give you that potent dose of active ingredients to brighten, tone, and hydrate your skin. It’s an essential part of my own skincare routine.

Must-Have Moisturizers

I adore a drugstore moisturizer because I feel zero guilt about applying an extra-thick layer to my parched winter skin. I let it sink in over five minutes and enjoy silky soft, hydrated skin all day long.

Suncare, Consistently

Yes, even in the winter you need to wear SPF. Sometimes even more so, since snow on the ground means you’re getting the UV rays reflected back up at you! Invest in a comfortable formula and enjoy youthful-looking skin for years to come.

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I know that people tend to have some pretty strong feelings about Valentine’s Day, but I’m firmly in the fan camp, mainly because any reason to get a little sassy, a little glam, and a whole lotta sexy is more than fine by me. Whether you’re in a relationship, situationship, or rocking that single as a Pringle life, I encourage you to embrace the day and channel your inner fox. Let her shine, babes! She’s earned it after an absolutely bonkers January. It’s why I’m sharing my favorite sexy Valentine’s Day makeup look for your date night, friend dinner, and everything in between.

In keeping with the color scheme of the holiday, I tend to reach for my rosiest pinks and most sensual reds when designing my glam. I’ve become quite the devotee of pink eyeshadow (trust me on this one—it’s way less scary than you think), as well as dark brown liner (it’s a little softer than classic black) and always a warm red lip (if you know, you know). All of my textures, from the eyes to lips, are also ever-so-slightly blurred. Basically, think about how you would look after making out with a cutie in the corner of a dark bar—undone, a little disheveled—and translate that into your various pigments. So if you’re in need of some new ideas on how to do your Valentine’s Day makeup for a sexy little evening, here’s the latest look that I swear by.

A Minimalist Dewy Base

There’s nothing sexier than letting your skin breathe, so a lightweight skin tint is key. It blurs dark spots and uneven texture just slightly to still allow your natural radiance to shine through, almost as if you’re permanently lit by candlelight.

Double the Blush, Double the Fun

When the night calls for setting the mood, I always use a duo of blushes—a deeper shade for my cheeks and around my hairline, and then a pop of brighter pink on top to mimic that out-of-breath flush.

Pink Shadow Saveur

It might sound a little strange to praise a pink eye look so ardently, but it’s the most underrated eyeshadow color in my opinion. For my fellow hazel or brown-eyed girlies, the shade really pops, and obviously, it’s ideal for Valentine’s Day makeup.

Smudged-Eye Siren

There is nothing hotter than a smokey eye, period. The key, in my experience, is reaching for an easily blendable cream formula that keeps your pigment diffused and very morning-after-esque. And, as of late, brown shades have been my go-to for a more modern look.

Just-Bitten Lips

A bold lip is a must for Valentine’s Day, and keeping the color perfectly imperfect is my signature. I tap in the pigment, allowing the warmth of my fingers to melt it into my lips and diffuse the edges for a lovely, lived-in look.

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My blonde, wavy hair is something of a signature at this point in my life. After 36 years (and 20 actually understanding how to style and care for my natural texture) I’ve finally figured out how to help my 2b waves do their thing. Is every single day a good hair day? Decidedly not—curly and wavy girls understand that struggle. But I’ve certainly developed a hair care routine that gets me as close as possible on the regular. That means definition, minimal frizz, a hint of volume, and smoothed ends, because of course my texture is just a teeny bit high maintenance.

"Wavy hair tends to be naturally more fragile because the bends and curves in the hair fiber create weak points where breakage can happen more easily," says celebrity stylist Rikke Gash, who counts Alix Earle, Leah Kateb, and Brooks Nader among her clientele. "The natural oils from the scalp also have a harder time traveling down the hair shaft compared to straight hair, so the mid-lengths and ends often stay drier. On top of that, many people with waves brush or heat-style their hair to either enhance or smooth the texture, which can add even more stress if the hair isn’t properly hydrated and protected."

Caring for wavy hair isn’t just about the styling products, however. Laying the foundation starts in the shower with your shampoo and conditioner. "For wavy hair, I always recommend lightweight hydration over heavy, overly rich formulas," says Gash. "Ingredients like coconut water, aloe vera, glycerin, and panthenol help replenish moisture while keeping the hair soft, bouncy, and full of natural movement. That’s why I love the Aluram Curly Shampoo and Conditioner. The coconut water infusion delivers hydration without weighing waves down, while the gentle, sulfate-free cleansing and moisturizing formula helps enhance the hair’s natural texture, reduce frizz, and keep waves looking healthy and defined. It’s a great option for anyone who wants their natural pattern to look its best without feeling over-conditioned."

Like anything else in the beauty world, finding the right formula, and combination of ingredients, is both an art and a science. Some things are too heavy for the looser waves (especially when compared to tighter curls and coils), but there are more moisture requirements than washing and conditioning straight hair. It’s a delicate dance for us wavy ladies, but not to worry—I’ve put in the legwork (head work?) to find the best shampoo and conditioner duos for wavy hair. Here are all the products I keep stocked in my shower to help my waves look their best.

Rice Water Winners

Rice water is an if you know, you know ingredient to help strengthen and smooth textured hair, and one of my favorites to keep my fragile, color-treated hair strong, especially during harsh winter weather.

Frizz Fighters

Frizz is the bane of my existence, and while I embrace a touch of it (especially since I air dry my hair), I also use my wash days to minimize the flyaways as much as possible.

Growth Boosters

I’m on the offensive when it comes to hair loss, and since textured hair is much more fragile than straight hair, I always look for formulas that help strengthen and retain length. Rosemary is my new go-to with a shampoo and conditioner combo for my 2B waves.

Delectable Definition

Wavy hair is super temperamental, so anything that helps to refine my texture without weighing it down and gives me those Pre-Raphaelite waves is a welcome addition.

Honey Helpers

Manuka honey isn’t just a skincare superstar—it can also provide weightless moisture for wavy and curly hair. Don’t overlook this ingredient when shopping for wash day essentials.

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Excuse me while I mourn the fact that I am not still in Paris right now. I spent four days this past week galavanting around my favorite city, eating copious amounts of cheese and butter, sipping French wine, and basking in everything the City of Light has to offer. That, of course, means I spent an hour wandering the aisles at City Pharma, the biggest and most iconic French pharmacy in Paris. With more brands than my mind can even comprehend, I could feel the tension releasing from my jet-lagged shoulders as I selected my favorite beauty products from the shelves. For context, my skin is currently battling an eczema flare, so it’s crazy dry, sensitive, and reactive, which is why the tenets of French skincare—gentle, hydrating, and beautifully simple formulas—are the perfect match for my stressed epidermis.

Of course, not everything that you can find in a French pharmacy is available stateside (although most cities have specialty stores that import the good stuff from overseas), but there’s always a stellar dupe to be found when I run out and my skin is crying out for moisture. So, whether you’re curating your beauty shopping list for your next visit to France or hoping to snag a few iconic French staples for your daily routines, this is everything I love to buy when I’m browsing a Parisian pharmacy.

Mais Oui, Moisture

The French don’t mess around when it comes to skin hydration, which is why their moisturizers are so iconic (and exceptional). There’s no shortage of options in this category, and I’m always eager to pick up one of the below—often multiple bottles—to restock my beauty cabinet.

Repairing Balms, Bises

If your skin needs a little bit of extra love (I know mine does right now during these frigid temperatures), a thicker balm is a staple that you should never pass up in a French pharmacy.

Salut, Serums

The French skincare ethos is all about perfecting your canvas so you don’t need a heavy base. That’s why these serums are a must-have in my Parisian shopping cart.

Targeted Topicals

Acne and fine lines are inevitable, but of course, the French have figured out the most effective solutions for both. This duo is definitely the Parisian secret to a flawless complexion.

Ooh La La, Occlusives

These are some of the first-ever pharmacy products I picked up in Paris, and I remain a loyal fan to this day. Plus, an oil and balm are both occlusive superstars, meaning they’re going to lock in moisture for all-day skin hydration.

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Hardly anyone will tell you that January is a great skincare season. The eczema patches are flaring up, the radiators are showing no mercy, and copious washing is leaving those hands feeling like crusty lizard skin. I admit that all of this is true—however! It’s also prime time for sneaking in all those skin resurfacing, smoothing, and brightening treatments that you’ve been waiting months to schedule. Why now? Well, you can’t exactly remove the topmost layer of your skin in the dead of summer when the UV index is at 12 and you’re walking around in the boiling heat. Beauty fans in the know understand that winter is peak season for aesthetic procedures (including lasers, microneedling, radiofrequency, and more), and therefore, for stocking up on the best post-procedure skincare, because the treatment regimen doesn’t stop when you leave the chair.

Caring for your skin after an in-office procedure is essential to ensure speedy healing and minimize the risk of complications like infections, scarring, and excessive irritation. And while it’s normal to experience some redness, peeling, and sensitivity following a laser or energy-based procedure, these at-home products will help keep you, and your skin, feeling as comfortable as possible. Here’s everything I reach for after a trip to the dermatologist for a little Fraxel, Clear + Brilliant, Pico Genesis, or IPL, among others.

Calming Cleansers

Keeping your raw, exposed skin clean is crucial for preventing infection, especially since many of these treatments are literally creating micro-injuries in the skin. That’s why I always keep a super gentle, fragrance-free cleanser made for sensitive and post-procedure skin in my vanity cabinet.

Healing Heroes

Brands are getting in on the post-procedure game with a new category of tailored products to speed up healing time. I love to incorporate these into my routine in place of my usual face serum to keep things gentle and irritation-free.

Targeted Moisture

A quality moisturizer is non-negotiable in the winter, but when your skin is extra dry and healing from a treatment, it’s even more crucial. I look for gentle, regenerative moisturizers that can repair my skin barrier, boost hydration, and enhance the effects of my recent procedure.

Occlusives All Day

The severe dryness, peeling, and flaking after an intensive laser or chemical peel are to be expected, but you can keep your complexion comfortable and lock in needed hydration with an occlusive balm. The best part? These essentials are also super affordable.

Make It Mineral

If you live in the US, you only have two SPF filters to choose from (although there is another one, bemotrizinol, on its way to FDA approval!) but after a procedure, you should always reach for a 30 or more SPF mineral option with zinc and/or titanium dioxide to prevent potential irritation from chemical sunscreens.

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When it comes to innovation in skincare, South Korea is the global hub. K-Beauty is responsible for the world’s best sunscreens (Beauty of Joseon is an MC fave), the country is behind the infamous salmon sperm facial (and PDRN topical treatments), and South Korean products oftentimes run circles around US counterparts that treat redness, uneven tone, and texture. So when I found myself in Seoul this time last year, it only seemed appropriate to make a trip to Olive Young—a.k.a. the South Korean version of Sephora—and purchase well over $400 worth of skincare. (Yes, I did need to buy an additional suitcase to get it home.)

Over the past 12 months, I’ve worked through almost all of the products—just in time for Olive Young to make it to NYC. The good news: I can now restock all my favorites and tell you which products are worth your money. Let’s get into it.

For Glass Skin

While “glass skin” as a term has its roots in Korean beauty culture, it’s really just a fancy way of saying flawless skin. These products prioritize even texture and tone, tighten pores, and give skin a plump and juicy bounce.

For Redness

As a rosacea girlie, redness has always been one of my biggest skin concerns. I do all the things: avoid my heat trigger and apply my prescriptions (thank you, Dr. Marisa Garshick). But these two products work wonders to neutralize my flush, both instantly and over time.

For Acne

South Korea’s approach to acne is quite different from how we treat it in the U.S. Rather than applying an aggressive spot treatment packed with actives, K-beauty focuses on restoring the skin barrier and maximizing hydration to calm a flare.

For Aging Skin

If you’re in South Korea, you should allocate at least a full day for in-office anti-aging treatments. Not only are their laser and injection treatments much more affordable than those in the States, but the technology is far more advanced. If a trip isn’t in the cards, add these wrinkle-reducing serums to your cart.

For Eyes

K-Beauty brands love an eye serum. They’re thinner and lighter than a traditional eye cream, but pack in a heavy dose of actives that smooth out fine lines, brighten dark circles, de-puff, and restore hydration.

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Is there anything better than smelling really, really, ridiculously delicious? I’ve tested thousands of perfumes in my career and yet I never get tired of discovering something new and swoon-worthy to add to my vanity-busting collection. For context, I recently moved, and as any New Yorker will tell you, that’s prime time to take stock of your possessions and make a tidy edit before schlepping it all across town. But with my perfumes…I just couldn’t. I need them all, and they each serve a purpose, whether it’s a scent for a romantic date night, an important business meeting, a festive soiree, or just a seasonal shift with the weather. I swap fragrances like I’m a stock market beauty broker, and I have no intention of changing my ways anytime soon. With that in mind, I’m taking full advantage of Sephora’s current fragrance sale—which offers 20 percent off for Beauty Insiders using the code “SAVESCENTS” and runs until December 24—and I highly suggest you do as well.

I’m currently in the midst of discovering a few niche fragrance brands to add to my lineup, as well as skin scents to upgrade my perfume layering game. A new spicy fragrance will infuse some much-needed warmth and energy into my daily fragrance routine this winter, and a cozy woody perfume seems like the perfect addition to my cold-weather beauty regimen. Here’s everything I’m shopping for at Sephora’s fragrance sale before the discounts end.

Flirty Florals

Floral scents get a bad rap in my opinion—too old, too powdery, too dated. I firmly disagree. The base of most scents is, and has been for decades, jasmine, so why not lean into the stunning perfume options for a sophisticated and timeless fragrance this winter?

Mesmerizing Musks

My favorite fragrance category for winter is always musk. It envelopes you like no other note can and is the perfect grounding ingredient for a heady but sensual fragrance.

Sensual Skin

This category is booming at the moment—likely because everyone is layering their fragrances like champions—and it’s honestly become the core of my perfume collection. Everybody needs a yummy skin scent, no matter the season.

Wonderful Woods

Woody perfumes are my stalwart, can’t-fail, everybody-loves-this-scent option. They’re particularly attractive in the depths of winter when all I want is to curl up next to a fire with an Old Fashioned and thick cashmere socks.

Enticing Amber

Amber scents are seeing a massive resurgence for 2025 and I predict the trend will continue well into the new year. They’re cozy yet sensual and wear beautifully on warmed skin with just a hint of sweat.

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Like pretty much every human being in New York City—scratch that, in the Northern hemisphere—my skin is dry. Like, itchy-when-I-wake-up, cracking-throughout-the-day, when-will-the-sun-return-to-save-us type dry. My humidifier is working overtime and my lineup of moisturizers, hydrating essences, and barrier repair creams is front and center in my vanity. If the saying goes, the best offense is a good defense (I know I’m not the only one utterly obsessed with Heated Rivalry and hockey at the moment) then my best dry skin tips are here to make sure we all win the battle against winter dehydration.

So, what exactly am I reaching for to ensure that my epidermis remains soothed, supple, and as moisturized as possible? Well, obviously a stellar moisturizer is a must, but there are several other steps you can take to support your stressed skin barrier during the harsh winter weather, no matter where you find yourself enduring the seasonal freeze. The key is to just be gentle with your skin. Inflammation can run rampant this time of year, and even though exfoliation is key to maintaining a smooth, glowing complexion, it can also be a bit too harsh if you currently resemble a dried-up desert snake. Never fear—I’ve spent over 20 years perfecting my skincare routine to banish dry skin. Here’s everything I swear by.

It’s Giving Gentle

Cleansing in the morning is generally a no-go in the winter (I’m not sweating enough to require it) but at night I tend to reach for an extra gentle cleanser with lots of hydrating and soothing ingredients.

Everything Essence

You might think an essence isn’t doing much of anything on your skin, but learn to trust the K-Beauty staple. It’s my favorite step post-cleansing to help draw some water back into the skin and create a supple base before the rest of my routine.

Hydration Station

There are several key ingredients to look for in your winter face serums—glycerin, PGA, panthenol, hyaluronic acid. Just make sure your skin is still slightly damp when you apply them so the humectant ingredients can pull in water from the environment and not your skin.

Hella Thicc

It goes without saying, but I’ll do it anyway—a thick face cream is non-negotiable come winter, especially if your skin leans dry year-round. The emollient properties help soften the skin, while occlusive ingredients lock in moisture, keeping your skin soothed throughout the day. Look for products labeled as “barrier repair” to enhance the calming and soothing benefits.

Slugging Saviors

Nighttime is when I level up my barrier repair game and reach for an occlusive balm to prevent moisture loss while I sleep. These are the products that are not meant to live under makeup—they are purely to treat and protect your skin while you’re bare faced and dreaming. Petrolatum is a tried and true ingredient that I can’t recommend highly enough.

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Buying beauty gifts for the people you love isn’t necessarily easy. Skin types, hair types, shade matching—these are all major factors that dictate a beauty purchase, and if you’re trying to err on the side of surprise, it can be a struggle to know exactly what to purchase (and ensure that your giftee will love it!). That’s why when I’m checking items off my holiday gifting list, I always return to body care products. Show me a person who doesn’t enjoy a deeply moisturizing hand cream, or a luxe body wash, or a hand soap so insanely luxurious and highbrow they’d never buy it for themselves. That’s where you, a bona fide beauty expert, come in to treat your besties to the must-have body care essentials for the holidays.

No matter your loved one’s beauty proclivities, I guarantee that they’ll enjoy anything from one of my three hero categories: cleansing, moisturizing, and treating. Anything under the umbrella of this trio is a surefire win with your loved ones—and you don’t even have to guess their shade. Here’s everything I’m eyeing in the body care aisle to finish my holiday shopping ahead of schedule.

All Hail Hand Soap

Something happens when you reach adulthood and you discover the joys of a really nice hand soap. It’s easy to talk yourself out of it when you’re shopping for a restock, which is why I always recommend scooping a luxe option or two as holiday gifts.

Gotta Hand (Cream) It To You

Well, if you’re splurging on the hand soap, you might as well make it a two-part gift, right? With temperatures dipping lower each day, and the rest of winter stretching on endlessly, your friends and family deserve some intense hand moisture to make it through the holidays.

Body Wash Wonders

Bath products have long been a gifting staple, but not everyone has a tub or even enjoys taking a bath (which is insanity but I digress). You truly can’t go wrong with a luxuriously-scented body wash that helps transform your giftee’s shower into a spa-like retreat.

Body Cream Couture

Anyone who doesn’t slather their body in a luxe cream after the shower is seriously missing out. Not only is it a heavenly sensorial experience, by the time winter hits, it’s definitely a necessity to keep dry, scaly skin at bay.

Treat(ment) Yourself

Body care is more advanced than ever, proving that those yummy active ingredients don’t have to stay above your décolletage. A targeted serum product is the ideal new addition to your beauty-obsessed pal’s skincare routine.

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If there’s one thing the beauty industry loves to do, it’s remind you that aging is the enemy. Correction—aging skin is the number one concern for women, basically from the time you hit 25, and your collagen levels start to drop. Now, I’m firmly in my mid-thirties and I can tell you, unequivocally, that growing older is *incredible,* but I will attest that the needs of my skin are different now than they were when I was 22. And that’s just fine! My epidermis is (for the most part) happy, healthy, and in the best shape of my life. That’s because I understand that mature skin enjoys different products and ingredients to keep it in tip-top shape, not because I want to look younger. On the contrary, I want to look like the most gorgeous 36-year-old I can. Ditto for the other women in my life who are older than I am. My mom is 73, my step-mom is 70, my sister and sister-in-law are both 40. The mature skin ladies abound, and we’re shopping for beauty products accordingly!

So, with the holidays right around the corner, I’m using this time as an opportunity to stock up on the best beauty gifts for mature skin. Because while none of us have any interest in returning to the confusion and disarray of our twenties (shudder), I know that we wouldn’t mind conserving collagen, moisturizing like a pro, and reaching for makeup products that actually cater to the needs of fabulous older women. Here’s everything I'm shopping for this year.

High Tech Tools

Give the gift of a snatched complexion with the buzziest gadgets that deliver real results. Your mom, aunt, bestie will be shocked when they unwrap it, and their skin will look flawless after just a few uses. What could be better?

Moisture Musts

Mature skin is inevitably drier, so a stellar moisturizer is non-negotiable. And while I’m a big believer that a great moisturizer doesn’t need to cost a whole lot, I use the holidays as an excuse to treat my loved ones to a luxury option.

Killer Concealers

The under-eye area is one of the first to show signs of aging (NBD!), which also means your complexion products need to be a little creamier but still lightweight so they don’t settle into fine lines or wrinkles. These winning concealers are tried-and-tested on mature skin.

Fab Face Mists

Looking for the perfect beauty stocking stuffer? A luxe face mist is ideal, especially if you have drier, mature skin. Plus, they look so damn chic on a vanity or desk.

Hair Heroes

Your hair changes as you age, fun fact. It thins a bit, and the texture can get a little rougher, but with the right products, you can maintain healthy, gorgeous hair through the decades.

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Given the nature of my job, I’m frequently exposed to the best of the best products in the beauty and fashion industries. Still, I rarely pay full price for a new shampoo, or a date night lipstick, or a fresh winter coat (because apparently fall weather lasted a mere two weeks in New York City). It’s why I treat the week before Black Friday and Cyber Monday like I’m preparing for the Olympics—the type of elite shopping event that makes your credit card quiver. Black Friday weekend is when I fully lean into my treat yourself gene and allow myself a select handful of beauty treats, from skin and body care staples to a few new winter nail polish colors. Not to mention, products to help my rib-skimming blonde hair look bright and luminous despite the sun setting at 4:30 p.m.; a dewy cream blush or two to enhance my paler-by-the-day complexion; and a sexy, wintry fragrance to add to my perfume collection.

Obviously there are a ton of brands going on sale this time of year. I get overwhelmed every time I open my inbox to an avalanche of discount alerts. That’s why I thought I’d share the beauty essentials I *really* want this holiday season, all of which are part of early Black Friday deals ahead of next weekend. Keep scrolling to see how a beauty director shops during the biggest sale week of the year.

Skincare Staples

This is the perfect opportunity to stock up on the pricier serums and active ingredient-rich formulas that have a steeper price tag than my drugstore cleansers and moisturizers.

Hair Helpers

My hair is high maintenance—there, I said it. Between blonde highlights three times a year and wearing an XXL length, my 2B waves are always in need of products to keep breakage at bay and the color bright.

Makeup Must-Haves

My makeup stays pretty minimal in the winter since I’m usually wrapped up in a scarf and/or a hat, but I still like to enhance my complexion and feel cute—freezing temperatures be damned.

Nail Necessities

Hot take—I like having my nails done in the winter so much more than the warmer months. A chic manicure is just a happy little reminder that I’m still a fox underneath all these layers.

Body Basics

My skin is beginning its rapid descent into lizard territory now that the cold weather is here, so I’m wasting no time in stocking up on all the moisturizing and gentle body care staples I need for my poor epidermis.

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Every morning at approximately 8:30 a.m., my mom and I hop on FaceTime as we’re doing our skincare to discuss the products we’re loving, the ones we’re ditching, and the items we're eyeing. Most days, we talk in circles. But this week? Our calls were extra exciting.

Because not only is the Sephora Savings Event in full swing—and therefore the perfect time to stock up on new goodies—but the temperature dropped Big Time. That means it’s officially time to ditch our lightweight moisturizers and eye serums for products that prioritize heavy-duty hydration and skin barrier repair.

Sure, we have different skin concerns (I’m 28, she’s 56), but we both have pretty dry skin, love a good glow, and appreciate a simple skincare routine that’s going to plump fine lines, keep our under eyes bright, and make sure our lips don’t get chapped to oblivion. It’s not often that we agree on products—but these 10 picks get both our stamps of approval.

Start With a Face Mask

I’m not normally a huge fan of face masks, but I make a conscious effort in the winter to use at least one a week. Allowing an extra dose of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides to soak into my skin for 10-20 minutes is often the make-or-break for a hydrated and plump complexion.

Swap in a Rich Moisturizer

Because my mom and I both have drier skin on a good day, we really up the ante when temps drop below 40. These are our go-to rich moisturizers—they create a nice, thick barrier between our skin and the wind, lock in hydration, and give a glowy look without feeling greasy.

Use a Hydrating Eye Cream

Usually, the rule of thumb is to use a lightweight eye cream under makeup. But because the under-eye area is so super delicate, it’s the first place to get crusty and flaky. We’ve found these two eye creams are the best for deep hydration and depuffing. Plus, they layer beautifully under concealer.

Don’t Forget Lip Balm

I’m a lip balm snob. My lips can become dry, cracked, and occasionally a little bloody (don’t judge) during the winter, so I apply these guys at least 10 times a day. They don’t sit on the surface—they sink in and provide lasting hydration.

Have a Hand Cream on Standby

My mom and I agree: a luxe hand cream is easily the most important (and forgotten) part of a winter skincare routine. I don’t care if you have the warmest cashmere gloves on the planet; cold air can make hands and cuticles incredibly dry and ashy. Having these pocket-sized picks on standby makes a world of difference.

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I don’t exactly know where the rest of this month went, but suddenly I’m staring down November and the start of the holiday season. Scratch that—in my world, rumblings of holiday shopping have been percolating for weeks. It’s just that I’ve now swapped my long tailored shorts for slouchy trousers and paper-thin white t-shirts for cashmere sweaters for good. No more randomly hot days, no surprise sweat fests on the train to work, just a full-on sprint towards the end of 2025. Well, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em, so why not start pondering on all of the deliciously luxurious beauty gifts I want to receive—and treat my loved ones to—for the holidays this year?

At 36 years old, skin maintenance is definitely top of mind, but I’m also finding plenty of joy in my makeup, nails, and hair routines. For cosmetics, I’m drawn towards creamy, comfortable, long-lasting formulas with plenty of hydrating ingredients. For my nails, I’m a recent convert to the at-home gel manicure (and my beauty budget is definitely grateful), so I’m taking every opportunity to try out the best fall nail color trends. And for my long, blonde, wavy hair, I’m loving anything that promises length retention and brass-fighting benefits when the weather turns cold and blustery.

Curious what a beauty director with over a decade of experience in the industry is hoping to snag for the holidays? Keep reading for my top 10 beauty gifts to give and receive this season.

High-Tech Tools

I’m not going to lie and say I don’t enjoy having plenty of beauty technology in my routine. Sometimes you just need to marinate under an LED mask to fight inflammation while you lounge on your couch. We all deserve a little TLC this time of year, after all.

Hair Helpers

My hair is my calling card but it’s not as low-maintenance as it looks. I love keeping tools and products in stock to make the styling process as seamless as possible since I’m a lazy girl at the end of the day.

Nailed It

In my line of work, I don’t feel ready to take on the day unless my nails are done. Even if I’m not wearing polish, I need my cuticles tidy and my nails neatly buffed and filed. Plus, an at-home gel manicure is swiftly becoming my favorite Sunday night ritual.

Makeup Musts

Although I don’t wear a full face beat everyday, I always reach for my staple products when I leave the apartment. That means glossy lips, flushed cheeks, and full brows each and every day. The holidays are the perfect time to stock up on my most luxurious staples.

Body Bliss

I treat bodycare like the ultimate spa moment in my total-body skincare routine. Any product that prioritizes the sensorial experience and delivers softer, smoother skin is a win in my book.

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I’m fairly low-maintenance when it comes to my hair. Sure, being a curly girlie, my 2B waves require their fair share of moisturizing and texturizing products after I shower to hold the shape and fight excess frizz, but I’m also a fan of the air dry and a prayer method most days. Occasionally, however, I need to step it up a notch and arrive at an industry event, a friend’s wedding, or a particularly saucy date night looking slightly more polished. Over many years of trial and error, I’ve finally decided that my best bet for a foolproof updo that feels like me without requiring hours of styling, or more than a handful of styling products, is a braided ponytail.

We are definitely in a ponytail revival at the moment, with street style stars and celebrities all showcasing their version of the look. The braided version (either a traditional three-strand or a fishtail braid) with a slicked-back finish always helps me feel sexy, slinky, and put-together.

The best part? If I have all my products ready to go, I can pull the hairstyle together in under five minutes. Here’s everything I use to perfect my signature braided ponytail for a stylish night out.

Boar or Bust

I have a hefty collection of hair brushes at this point in my life, but to get that super smooth front with little to no frizz, I need a boar bristle brush. It can be a little pricier, but it’s worth every penny for the sleek look it achieves, I swear.

Yell for Gel

The secret to a slick-back style is plenty of hair gel. What makes the biggest difference is using a quality formula that doesn’t flake throughout your evening, but still delivers hold and shine. Apply it from the roots to the base of where your ponytail will start before you go in with your boar bristle brush and your hair will be sleek all night long.

Flyaway Wands FTW

I remember the days of using clear brow gel to calm my frizz. Now, flyaway wands are quickly becoming one of beauty’s hottest categories, and my new must-have for styling a braided ponytail.

Get Some Closure

I never want my braided ponytail to look too casual or weighed down by bulky hair ties. I always reach for small invisible elastics for the ends, and then a metallic hair cuff to cover my hair-colored ponytail holder at the base for a bit of extra glam.

Finishing Touches

The beauty of a braided ponytail is that it doesn’t require much to achieve the look. Still, I like to go in with some oil on the ends to minimize the look of split ends and a touch of hairspray to really lock the style in place.

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.