STYLE

I'll admit it: I'm not *super* into beauty. Most days you're going to find me wearing the same jean-shorts-and-blue-tank combo, and rocking a ponytail and bare face instead of full glam. I don't keep up with the YouTube beauty community (or its drama), and no one has *ever* asked me to do their makeup before a big event.

But just because I'm not following the latest trends doesn't mean I don't want the best products—I just want the best ones for me. And since I don't want to waste time (and money) on passing fads, random recs or one time-use picks, it's *so* important to find hair and makeup products I can buy again and again. Whether I'm sticking to the basics or trying out a new look, here are 10 fab products I personally won't go without...

Glossier Balm Dotcom

Pairs with no makeup, light makeup or full glam. Plus, it hydrates dry or chapped lips and provides the longest-lasting protection of any lip product I've tried. I tend to stick with the original—but the flavors, especially mango, smell delish. Glossier, $12

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer in Radiance

I used to only use the Radiance shade in the summertime, but I've recently found that it provides a year-round glow and is perfect for layering a light foundation stick or color-correcting cream. Smashbox, $39

Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl Eyeliner 

I struggle with feeling fatigued *every* morning (#relatable), so when I heard that this Eye Cheat eyeliner shade makes you look more awake & refreshed, I was sold. Charlotte Tilbury, $27

Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum

After trying dozens of serums, I keep coming back to this one. Just like promised, it actually makes me feel like I have glass skin—firm, light and blemish-free. Peach & Lily, $39

Urban Decay Beached Bronzer

Even if you haven't been to the *actual* beach in months, this easy bronzer gives a subtle glow without the cakiness. Urban Decay, $31

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

Eye cream is my go-to splurge item. After just a couple weeks of using this one, I've noticed *actual* improvement and brightness where it used to be...bleh. Sephora, $32 or $50

John Frieda Secret Weapon Touch-Up Creme 

Frizz is a huge struggle in my life, and this is the *only* product that I trust to clean up top-of-the-head flyaways—whether I'm rocking a high pony or grabbing the flat iron. Ulta, $9

Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner

Neutrogena's products are reliably excellent, none more so than their alcohol-free toner. I've tried fancier brands, but I always come back to this one—it's easy and effective. Amazon, $6

Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm

Now that I've learned that a cleansing balm is the way to go when removing makeup, I find myself constantly grabbing Green Clean for that fresh-faced feeling. Farmacy Beauty, $34

Anastasia Beverly Hills High Shine Lip Gloss in Sunscape

Because a full face of makeup isn't complete without gloss, I always stash a Sunscape in my purse. It's shiny, not sticky, and totally selfie-ready. Anastasia Beverly Hills, $16

Love these picks? Stay tuned for Part Two!

Image Credits: Glossier: instagram.com/glossier. Smashbox: instagram.com/smashboxcosmetics.  Peach & Lily: instagram.com/peachandlily.  Urban Decay Bronzer: urbandecay.com. Kiehl's: instagram.com/kiehls. John Frieda: instagram.com/owengould. Neutrogena: instagram.com/neutrogena. Farmacy: instagram.com/farmacybeauty. Anastasia Beverly Hills: anastasiabeverlyhills.com. 

by Katherine Hammer | 9/15/2020