I should start this off by saying this is not an advertisement, these are just real products that I love and truly recommend. 2018 was the year of discovering products that work for me and plan to keep in my daily or weekly routine (depending on the product).

Let’s start off with the “where have you been all of my life?” product, the one I don’t think I can live without: Goop’s G. Tox Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo. This has transformed my hair and turned my shower routine into a spa-like experience. I rub a small amount into my hair once a week and wash out all of the salt crystals. This stuff works out any build-up from the week generally brought on by other hair products I use. This makes my hair smell amazing and feel squeaky clean. It’s a game changer.

Next is my second “where have you been all of my life?” product, Differin gel. Earlier this year I had a handful of pretty awful breakouts and nothing seemed to keep them at bay until I learned about this gel. Now, if I see or feel a breakout coming, I blot a little of this gel on the spot, go to bed, and wake up blemish free. This stuff is the real deal and helps combat pimples but unfortunately doesn’t help with scars.

This is an oldie but a goody, a product I love so much I have already written a post about it here.  Julep’s love your bare face is an oil based cleanser that really gets rid of your makeup (even waterproof mascara) and leaves your face feeling soft and clean. I have been using this for six years, in fact my breakouts happened when I switched to a different cleanser- I won’t be making that mistake again.

I got my very first facial at a spa in Edinburgh, Scotland this past Spring and the esthetician used a micro exfoliating balm that smelled so good I had to bring it home with me. It is luxurious in every way and leaves my skin feeling smooth and bright. I use it once or twice a month because I want it to last!

The next one isn’t exactly just one product but a line of very affordable products that I have had a lot of fun discovering. By now you have probably heard of a brand called The Ordinary. So far, my favorite product has been the hyaluronic acid which costs just $6.80 a bottle. It helps me any time my skin or lips are feeling dry and at that price point, it can’t be beat.

(image courtesy of Adore Beauty)

Lastly, another affordable line available at Target is by celebrity hairstylist Kristen Ess. Her products smell amazing and really do work well, I even use her straightener (it gives me the best curls). One of my favorite products is her dry shampoo, I spray it on at night and let it absorb any oils so that my hair looks fresh in the morning.

(image courtesy of Kristen Ess)

Have you discovered products that you truly love and think we should try? Let us know in the comments!