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The holidays are coming–but what does mom get in her stocking? Treat yourself this year with some beauty products and accessories that are tried and true.
For me, finding beauty products that work for you takes a lot of trial and error- which also means wasted money. A friend of mine recently mentioned that she just wanted someone to tell her what to buy because there are so many choices. I decided to round up a few of my favorite beauty products, accessories, and a few other body care items that I use almost every day. I’m not a beauty or fashion expert, but I am a mom without a lot of time who has figured out that finding a few key pieces and products can make all the difference in feeling put together in a short amount of time.
Lipstick
I never used to wear any lipstick because I hated how it came off on cups and you had to reapply to keep from looking ridiculous. Maybelline SuperStay 24 Hour Liquid Lipstick is the best long-lasting lip color I have found and one of my favorite beauty items. This stuff STAYS ON. Once you apply the color and let it dry (5-10 minutes), it does NOT smudge off. It does not feel sticky. It doesn’t leave residue anywhere. Does it stay on completely for 24 hours? No. But it basically will last me the entire day with no problem. I never have to check on it or reapply. You get superior performance at a budget price (less than $10 in most drug stores). This lip color comes with a clear balm you can put over the color to make it more shiny and keep your lips moisturized and protect the color a bit more. Here are my top three favorite colors that I think have a wide-ranging appeal.
Continuous Coral
Reliable Raspberry
Timeless Toffee
Hand Cream
I’m not a fan of most lotions. Most of them feel too slippery and have overly strong scents. A friend introduced me to Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream, and I’ve been using it as my primary hand cream ever since! I’m washing my hands constantly as a stay-at-home mom with cooking, cleaning, and dealing with the kids’ germs. This hand cream is THICK and you only need a little bit at a time. As you rub it in, it sort of creates a nice barrier over your skin which helps protect it. When my hands are dry and cracking, it feels like such a relief. Since I’m sensitive to smells, I prefer their fragrance-free option.
Earrings
Throwing on a pair of Target earrings and necklace is my favorite way to look a little more dressy with basically zero effort. I lean towards buying a lot of simple staple pieces that will go with pretty much anything. That way I don’t have to think too much about what would match my outfit. I just grab and go. I like to wear both silver-colored and gold-colored jewelry, so many times I will buy the exact same design in both colors so I always have exactly what I want. I always get complimented on these earrings, and people always seem surprised when I say they are from Target! You don’t have to spend a ton of money for a great look. Plus, since they are cheap I won’t cry if my kids destroy them.
Here are a few examples of earrings I have purchased or similar to them:
Gold Leaf Earrings
Silver Filigree Drop Earrings
Target’s A New Day Earrings
Eyebrow Pencil
I grabbed this Brow Power Universal Brow Pencil on impulse the last time I went to Ulta Beauty and I have really loved it. The color intensity varies by how hard you press down and lets you build it up gradually. This is important for people like me who basically have no idea what they are doing most of the time, so if you make a mistake it’s not a huge deal. Doing my eyebrows is sometimes the only makeup I do. I feel like I am put-together if my brows are on point, and iT Cosmetics makes that easy with this brow pencil.
Lip Balm
This ChapStick Skin Protection Sunscreen Moisturizer is my absolute favorite. I first discovered it when a friend loaned it to me on a ski trip. It goes on very smoothly with a nice texture, has very little scent (and no weird taste), and has SPF 15. I love that it helps protect your lips from the sun while helping heal your dry lips.
Hand Soap
I love Bath and Body Works! I have mentioned before that I am particular about scents, but there are many pleasant (and not too strong) scents made by Bath and Body Works and hand soap is the perfect way for me to enjoy them. My hands feel clean, soft, and are left with a light and pleasant scent that lingers just a little in my bathroom. I enjoy all the seasonal scents, but my absolute favorite is Bath & Body Works Hand Soap, Twisted Peppermint!
Infinity Scarf
This Old Navy Infinity Scarf is THE SOFTEST thing ever! It is so cozy, y’all. It really pulls together an outfit during those fall and winter months while keeping you warm. I actually bought this in two different colors so I can wear one with almost any outfit I own. This scarf has been discontinued, but here is another one that is also super soft!
I hope this list helps you get a jump start on some beauty products that fit well into your everyday life. I love things that are simple to use and get the job done for a decent price. Check out my recommendations for 3 Subscription Services that Every Mom Needs. Stay tuned for more of my favorite things in a future post!
I love getting new earrings! Such an easy way for a mom to accessorize!
Thanks for the lipstick recommendation! I have always been the same way about lipstick, but lately I have been finding myself wanting something to add a little color. I’ll have to give the Maybelline a try!
Great products! Perfect for a busy mom on the go.
Spot on! I would die without my chapstick! And thanks for the other recommendations too!
I love the 24 hour color I have been using it for a couple of years now! The prices above are awesome!!
You look great, love your tips and they even work after the kids leave the nest! Because I’m still hustling 🙂
I too need my chapstick! Very important! Thanks!
All must haves! Great ideas for every mom!
Ill have to go check out Old Navy’s scarves! I love scarves!
Great tips! I always love new earrings!
Super pretty earrings! And Chapstick is always a good thing! Great post!
Great product ideas! I wish I could wear lipstick without looking like the Joker.
I love a good scarf! Thanks for the lipstick recommendation. I’ve been searching for a good one!
Earrings! Me too…once I slide a pair on I feel ready to conquer!
Dangly earrings and hand lotion are musts lol. My hands are so dry this winter.
Great products!
Great on the go recommendations for a busy woman. Thanks!
Those earrings are so cute! Great products!
Fun list! I hardly ever wear makeup or jewelry anymore now that I have kids. 😕 Lip balm is a must have though!
Thanks for sharing some of your secrets!! Love this list 🙂
Love the tips – thanks for the info!!!! I’m curious to check out the 24 hour color!