EVERYDAY: BEST BEAUTY BUYS UNDER $12
I truly believe you get what you pay for when it comes to consumer products but there is something to be said about convenience and science. Science has made it possible for so many products to be just as good (if not better) than a lot of their higher-end counterparts. On the other hand, convenience drives a lot of my decisions these days as the mom of a busy toddler. Gone are the days when I could casually browse the beauty aisles at Nordstrom. Now it's mostly an all out race to the finish line when I am on a Target run (can we just have a moment of silence for the most convenient store of all time? We love you, Target).
I've used a lot of products in my life, ya'll. I love products. I am always on the lookout for the next staple in my beauty regimen. Here are a few of my favorite tried, tested and (most importantly) affordable products out there.
L'Oreal Clay Mask - I have been using this mask for about a month and have yet to be disappointed. My face is left feeling smooth, clean and detoxed. It literally glows every time I use it. And it's half the price (or more!!) than some other clay masks out there.
L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Self - Tanning Wipes - Let me be honest here. I have been using Tan Towels for about 5 years and am pretty much obsessed with them. That being said, these wipes had a lot to live up to in my eyes. What I will tell you is that they exceeded my expectations and are an excellent alternative (and less than half the price) to Tan Towels. Between these wipes and the clay mask, L'Oreal has made me a true believer.
Pacifica Face Wash - Can't stop, won't stop raving about this face wash. Similar washes sell for upwards of $40 (!?!?!). It's especially great for this time of year in the south when you can't get out the door without breaking a sweat. By the end of the day my face is so ready to be free of all that summertime gunk. This smells great, leaves my face feeling so refreshed and so clean!
p.s. you can now get it in travel size!!
Simple Wipes - Let's cut to the chase. I use these when I'm too lazy to wash my face. And although nothing really compares to a good sudsy face wash these actually kill it when it comes to getting all the junk off. Keep these near your sink for when you can't fathom putting actual effort into your night-time routine. No judgement here.
EOS Lip Balm - I love these cute little balls of goodness. What's not to love? The packaging is fun, they are easy to find at almost any store that sells beauty products, and they hit the mark when it comes to keeping your lips soft & smooth. They also sell a version with SPF 15 (so important to protect those puckers, people). They also make great gift basket items or stocking stuffers!
Sally Hansen Insta-Dri - I used to simply abhor doing my own nails. I would mess up my manicure, without fail, every time. Until I found this miracle potion. I use the clear coat over my favorite Essie and OPI colors and it dries my nail polish in a flash. Now I can keep my nails looking decent in between gel manicures and don't have to worry about keeping my hands in a safe place for an hour or more after painting (virtually impossible).
Nexxus Comb-Thru Finishing Mist - I originally purchased this hairspray because I couldn't make it to the salon to pick up another can of Aveda Air Control. And how could I resist that pretty pink packaging? I now only use this hairspray because it is just as good as my Aveda at half the price. I love that I can grab it on a Target run and not have to go out of my way to find a salon or Aveda store. Love this stuff!
e.l.f. Blending Sponge - I have a Beauty Blender and can I tell you that I don't see much of a difference? They both do a great job blending and that's really all they are meant to do. It is nice to have a couple of blending sponges on hand for use on your different makeup products (foundation, concealer, highlighter). At this price you can buy a sponge for each and every one! Would make a great girls gift bag item for bachelorette parties, birthdays, girls weekends, and showers!
See you in the Target aisles!
Talk soon,
Casey