We all know how expensive ($$$) skincare can be. Of course, the overall goal to maintain that youthful, I woke up like this glow, but there is a certain amount of effort that goes into such upkeep. My personal skin woes have ranged from combating confidence-scarring adult acne to the struggle of balancing an adequate level of moisture without looking like a planet. You never know how extreme dry, peeling skin can be, until you’re struggling with it one-on-one.
The winter season calls for an extra amount of care that preserves the sanctity of your skin while ensuring that you remain your dewy and supple self. Keep reading to discover the six beauty faves that have consistently sustained me in the moisture department!
1) Pantene Pro-V’s Gold Series Hydrating Butter Creme, $8
Every time I hit the streets of Houston, I am constantly bombarded with questions about how I manage my natural hair. More specifically, questions ensue about the types of products I use. The Pantene Pro-V “Gold Series” is an absolute godsend! The Hydrating Butter Creme is sulfate-free, contains argan oil and is an essential for dry, damaged hair. You can’t go wrong with adding this gem to your hair arsenal.
Pro Tip: After taking down a twist-out, use the Pantene Pro-V Gold Series Hydrating Butter Creme as a daily moisturizer for your curly coif – apply a small amount in the morning to infuse hair with added shine and enhanced definition.
2) Dr. Teal’s Moisturizing Bath & Body Oil in “Lavender” or “Eucalyptus”, $5
Oil is a mainstay when it comes to avoiding the fear that is known as being “ashy”. No matter the time of day, I am quick to slather on Dr. Teal’s Moisturizing Bath & Body Oil. In addition to its deeply calming aromatic benefits, this product is an excellent alternative to cream-based lotions, that may not necessarily serve it up on the moisture scale. With sweet almond oil, shea butter, aloe vera, lavender oil and jojoba seed oil as primary ingredients, your skin will be shine brighter than gold!
Pro Tip: After an intense, day of adulting, pour a bit of the Dr. Teal’s Moisturizing Bath & Body Oil into a hot, soothing bath. Your senses will be immediately awakened and thirsty skin will transform into quenched goodness!
3) Purpl & Prosper’s Calm Complexion Serum, $23
The entire Purpl & Prosper skincare line is the truth! I discovered this brand online, after searching for natural, non-toxic beauty products. Purpl & Prosper’s Calm Complexion Serum works wonders in gently maintaining clear, supple skin without any added irritation. Each Purpl & Prosper product also comes equipped with a personal affirmation that you can read and repeat each day, as you use the product. Neat, right? Check out more from Purpl & Prosper via Instagram at @purplandprosper.
Pro Tip: Use Purpl & Prosper’s Calm Complexion Serum twice a day (once in the morning and at night before bed) after washing your face to help even out skin tone. This treasure is also great with reducing and ceasing future breakouts.
4) Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula, $7
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula with Vitamin E is my holy grail product. Cocoa butter has been a go-to beauty treatment since I was a kid and I blame my momma for putting me on to it. Use it as a lotion, use it as a lip balm, use it to soothe eczema or use it as an overnight treatment. I can’t rave about it enough!
Pro Tip: Apply Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula to the areas that require an intense amount of moisture: knees, elbows, feet (including the heels) and even hands. I always carry a portable version in my purse for day-to-day usage. Don’t forget, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula is also effective in soothing marks and scars – I can’t tell you how many times its saved my skin from the aftermath of burns, cuts and scrapes.
5) Creme of Nature’s Pure Honey Moisture Whip Twisting Butter, $8
Another hair product that I stan is Creme of Nature’s Pure Honey Moisture Whip Twisting Butter. Listen, I have no idea what hair type grows out of my head, but I do know one thing – my crown requires consistent moisture. This little baby introduces frizz-free, hydration to my twists and also leaves my hair soft and free of those pesky flakes and unwanted crunch.
Pro Tip: Apply Creme of Nature’s Pure Honey Moisture Whip Twisting Butter in combination with a mousse and a hair grease to drench those curls during a twist out. Definition, hydration and longevity included.
6) Aveeno’s Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30, $14
Aveeno’s Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 30 has been saving my skin since I was in my 20s. Confession: I didn’t always use sunscreen. My dermatologist highly recommended its usage and warned that, without it, wrinkles, dark spots and other skin problems would become prevalent. The sun’s ultraviolent (UV) radiation is pretty damn powerful and constitutes for almost 80% of skin’s aging. Let that sink in.
Pro Tip: If you’re not using a daily moisturizer with sunscreen, you’re playing yourself. Sun damage affects everyone, even people of color, and the consequences are irreversible. Google it. Aim for SPF 30 or higher. Protect that melanin!
And, there you have it folks! I’m curious – what are some of your favorite winter beauty essentials? Any recommendations? Sound off below!
“Love of beauty is taste. The creation of beauty is art.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
ESMESHA CAMPBELL - Lifestyle, Fashion Culture, and Beauty 