Let's face it, ladies, Christmas can often be a bit more on your plate than for the guys. At least for me it sure is! I carry most of the load around the holidays. I get many messages on what are some of my self-care favorites and everyday must-have items - so here you go!
Ladies, never feel guilty about taking care of yourself. You often spend most of your day taking care of everyone else. Treat yourself in the coming year. And to any guy who reads this and stocks up for his lady, you're the best! Just like my man :)
1. SkinMedica Cleanser
You can click above to read the ingredients on their main page. You can order this at a number of places online. Overstock is usually the cheapest I have found. The price is $35 on overstock and the 6-ounce bottle lasts me about 5 months. Most Med Spas have them in stock locally if you are looking for this gift before Christmas.
2. Easy Stocking Stuffer Idea: Neutrogena makeup wipes.
I put this in my girl's stockings every year. While you can find this at most any drug store, grocery store, Walmart, Target - I use Amazon. I can get a pack of two for $8.97 - linked above.
The girls and I all prefer the Neutrogena brand only. Cheaper brands break out our skin and have a strange smell. If you buy at pharmacies and other local places you will often pay around $6 - $7 or more for one pack, so amazon is definitely cheaper. One pack usually last about a month.
3. DW Candles - Peony Scent:
I linked these above on Amazon - but I actually only buy them at Home Goods, TJ Maxx, or Marshalls. On amazon they sell for $22 and up - at Home Goods - I pay $3.99, 6.99, 8.99, 9.99... But since you never know Home Goods inventory you have to stop several times to find them.
My teens sneak these upstairs and their friends always comment on the scent. BEST fragrance EVER! This is probably my top favorite item on the list!
4. Gift card to a local Med Spa.
Forget all the shaming of women who take care of their skin. All the haters are wasting their money somewhere else in their budget, so feel no guilt. Skip the alcohol, definitely trash the nicotine habit, and give up some Starbucks runs - easy ways to slide these items into the budget.
If you are local in the Raleigh/Durham area, send me an email and I will tell you my favorite places in this area. Here are the items I purchase during the year.
You will need to call for a free consult for a few items because they are prescription strength.
*OBAGI Nuderm Toner, Blend (RX ), Clear (RX), Exfoderm Forte - I SWEAR BY THIS!
You can buy this *Obagi Nuderm System* as a set. It is upwards of $500. I piece together my items to make it cheaper and because I do not use the cleanser in the system or the sunscreen that is included in several kits.
For the Blend and the Clear, I ONLY like the RX, not the FX (FX can be purchased online, take the time and go to the MedSpa for the RX). The FX is not the prescription-strength version. The RX dramatically helps with any pigmentation issues and allows you to trash the makeup. I use the system two times a year to correct pigment issues.
I have been a sun worshipper for years and used tanning beds in high school and college. This has helped correct damage on my face. I get compliments all the time on my skin. Obagi allows me to almost never use concealer and foundation.
I also love the *Obagi C System* if pigment issues are not your main concern.
Obagi products are my favorite and they last a good 5 months. Worth every penny!
5. Hair Dryer Brush.
This is a time saver in the morning and is wonderful if you have thick hair that needs frizz control. Helps smooth and dry your hair quickly.
6. Coconut Scrub and Exfoliating Brushes.
My girls and I both use this to exfoliate, it smells amazing. It reminds us of the beach. This is our favorite scent. We use these exfoliating brushes to apply it: :
Exfoliating Brushes $9.97
7. Tory Burch Perfume.
This is my favorite scent. This size lasts me almost an entire year. Walmart online is the cheapest place I have found - around $70. It is upwards of $130 in most places.
8. Lip Gloss.
Lip gloss is my only essential makeup item. I can skip everything else but I always have one in my purse, pocket, car, and in my desk. Here are my top three brands.
I get the pack of 4 which includes a free lipstick -$21 - on amazon.
These are around $6.97 each. I love this neutral color.
9. Lotion
It is around $8 on amazon.
Great scent, great texture. Last all day!
10. Gratitude Journal.
Seems simple and not very important at first, but it is a daily habit I have come to love. Great stocking stuffer. My teen even asked for one. Great way to start or end a day. They are usually under $10.00.
11.Quality Shampoo and Conditioner.
If you color treat your hair, especially those of us who go much lighter than our natural color, you must invest in good hair care. I love this brand. It is $30 a bottle in salons and in Ulta but I buy it on the Walmart website for $38 for the shampoo and conditioner combined.
12. Boutique Gift Card.
Here are my top three boutiques for online shopping:
13. Sunglasses.
Here are a few of my current favorites - from cheap to a bit more expensive.
14. Steve Madden Shoes
15. Sorel Shoes
Best winter shoes. Feet never get cold and super comfy.
Extra!!! Hair and Makeup Gift Ideas.
1. Hoola Matte Bronzer $30.00
10. Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner $38.00
14. SkinMedica AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser $35.00
Happy Shopping!
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