Can you believe there is less than a week left of 2014?? As we wrap up this year, it’s time to reflect on a lot, which, to me, also includes all the great new products I discovered this year, hence Year End Favorites.
My criteria for favorites is basically something that I’ve discovered at some point in 2014 that I absolutely love, will purchase again, can’t go without. Not necessarily holy grail products (because some of those were discovered before this year) or even things that just came out this year (because I don’t jump right on the bandwagon for new stuff), but things that were new to me in 2014. I’ve done a lot of hauling this year, so there was a lot to choose from, so these will come in several parts.
And this post is part one, featuring…skin and hair care!
SKIN
First Aid Beauty Eye Duty Triple Remedy: This was in my July Favorites post here, and it is still a staple! The only downside is that the applicator can get messy, but it really makes me look more awake and makes my concealer look great. Essential!
Julep Brilliance Hand Scrub: This was in my September favorites, and I still love it, especially as we get into cold weather. It has helped my skin feel smooth and not flaky, and it smells amazing. I use it about twice a week before bed, and I definitely notice a difference.
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment: I’ve used more lip scrubs this year than last year, and this one is definitely my favorite. I love the sweet citrus smell, and I love that it’s still a good exfoliator without being overly harsh. A little goes a long way, and regular exfoliating is great for my lips (and lipstick).
Clinique Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief: I got a sample of this in January, and I’ve repurchased it for this winter, too. As I’ve said before, this stuff is perfect for winter skin! It hasn’t been too cold here yet, but I’ve been using it as the temperature has dropped, and it’s really made my skin feel soft and prepped for makeup. Definitely a must have.
Purity Face Wash by Philosophy: I’ve talked about this stuff here…and here...and here, so there’s not much left to say, except this stuff is great and I really enjoy using it.
Mary Kay Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover: This is fairly new to my collection but hallelujah! This is an amazing eye makeup remover for all kinds of eye makeup, no matter how stubborn. You can use a cotton ball, but I took a tip from LaFemme5278 on YouTube and just put some on my fingers and lightly massage the eye makeup off – works like a dream and it wastes less cotton balls! It melts makeup off like magic.
Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner: I’ve talked about this here and here, and it’s still a staple in my shower routine. I’m almost through my first container, and I can’t wait to get another. For people like me who are way too lazy/forget to put on lotion right after the shower, it’s just what I’ve needed!
And, of course, my Clarisonic Mia…the miracle worker.
HAIR
Truthfully, I don’t change up my hair care very much at all…with my curly hair, once I find something that works and looks good, I stick with it. This year, however, I found some amazing new favorite products, most of all….
The Briogeo line: Don’t Despair, Repair Mask, Curl Charisma Creme and Conditioner. This stuff is amazing! It’s all natural, made especially for curly girls. The Conditioner is super thick, but it’s amazing. The masque truly transforms your hair texture, especially if you suffer from any dryness or frizz. And the Creme is so lightweight and really cuts down on frizz and helps define curls. Overall, I notice a huge difference in my curls with this line, especially now that I’m keeping my hair long. This is a new permanent fixture!
Big Sexy Hair Root Pump: I’ve talked about this before, and it is amazing for volume! It can leave your hair a little sticky, but it is perfect for big hair, which I love.
Have you tried any of these products? What are your favorite Skin and Hair Care favorites for 2014?