With everything happening around the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant influx of news. Social distancing and staying at home have become our new normal, and for many, this can be mentally and emotionally draining. But sometimes, the best way to manage the stress is to focus on things we can control—like our self-care routines. So today, I’m taking a break from the heavy stuff to share five beauty products that have been keeping me feeling fresh, glowy, and ready to tackle each day from the comfort of my home.
If you’re like me and are spending more time in sweatpants and scrunchies these days, you might as well treat yourself to some skin-loving products that make you feel pampered. Here are my top five beauty picks that help me unwind, hydrate, and feel good—even on the busiest days at home.
1. La Crème by Cle de Peau: The Ultimate Luxury
Let’s talk luxury skincare. I’ve been using La Crème by Cle de Peau for two years now, and it has been an absolute game-changer in my night routine. Now, I know this product has a hefty price tag, but I promise, it’s worth every penny. La Crème is an anti-aging night cream that works to regenerate and repair skin while you sleep. Its formula features powerful ingredients like Platinum Golden Silk, Theanine, and Japanese Pearl, which target skin inflammation and promote deep hydration. Plus, it’s formulated to be gentle enough for sensitive skin, so I never worry about irritation.
Cle de Peau just launched a reformulated version of this product, and it’s even better than before. The addition of green tea extract helps reduce inflammation and offers a firmer, more radiant complexion. If you can’t swing the price, consider Cle de Peau’s Creme Fortifante Intensive as a more affordable alternative. As my mom always says, “Invest in two things: shoes and skincare—they’ll take you places in life.” #Amen to that!
2. GOOPGLOW Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Serum: A Skin Brightening Powerhouse
I’ve always been a fan of Vitamin C for its brightening and hydrating properties, and GOOPGLOW’s 20% Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid Serum has taken my glow to the next level. This product is a dream come true for anyone looking to improve skin texture and boost hydration. The best part? It’s a fresh, mix-it-yourself formula. Vitamin C is notoriously unstable when mixed with water, so GOOP has thoughtfully separated the powder from the serum. After mixing the two, the product is good for up to three months, which helps preserve its potency.
I’ve noticed an immediate difference in my skin’s texture—my complexion looks brighter and more even. Plus, I’ve also been adding GOOPGLOW Morning Skin Superpowder to my water each morning for an extra dose of antioxidants. It’s packed with Vitamin C, CoQ10, and other essential nutrients that help combat stress and pollution, which is something we all need during times like these. Not to mention, both products are clean, free of harsh chemicals, and designed to nourish the skin without the toxins often found in other beauty products.
3. Summer Fridays Super Amino Gel Cleanser: Gentle Yet Effective
If you’re looking for a new cleanser that’s both effective and gentle, Summer Fridays Super Amino Gel Cleanser should be on your radar. This product is packed with 11 amino acids and mineral-rich seawater, which help nourish and balance your skin’s natural pH. Having dry-normal skin, I’m often hesitant to try new cleansers since many leave my skin feeling tight and stripped. But this one doesn’t—it’s moisturizing while still effectively removing makeup and impurities. It’s also clean beauty, which is a huge plus.
I’ve been using this cleanser daily, and I love how soft and hydrated my skin feels after every wash. Plus, it’s light enough to use morning and night without overloading my skin with unnecessary ingredients.
4. Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray: Volume and UV Protection in One
As someone with fine hair that tends to fall flat, I’m always on the lookout for a product that adds volume without weighing it down. Enter Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. This versatile product works as a dry shampoo and texturizer in one, absorbing oil and adding volume at the roots. I like to spritz it halfway through drying my hair for a little extra oomph, and it does wonders. It creates texture without making my hair feel stiff or crunchy, and it even provides UV protection to keep your hair safe from the sun’s damaging rays.
I love that it’s suitable for all hair types, including color-treated hair. It’s the perfect product for a quick refresh, especially when you’re in a rush and don’t want to rely on hot tools. Plus, the scent is just divine—think of it as an instant pick-me-up every time you use it.
5. Ouai Shampoo and Conditioner for Fine Hair: Lightweight and Fresh
I’ve tried a lot of shampoos over the years, but Ouai’s Shampoo and Conditioner for Fine Hair have truly impressed me. The formula is thick, yet it doesn’t strip my hair of its natural oils. After using these products, my hair feels light and fresh, without any residue or heaviness. I’ve been using less heat on my hair lately (bye-bye, curling iron!), and these products have kept my strands looking smooth and healthy, even with minimal styling.
What I love most about Ouai is that their products are customizable for your specific hair type. Whether you have fine, thick, curly, or textured hair, they’ve got you covered. Since I’ve started using this set, I’ve noticed my hair looks more voluminous and feels softer.
Final Thoughts: Self-Care That’s More Than Skin-Deep
During times of uncertainty, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos, but I’ve found that focusing on small moments of self-care, like treating myself to nourishing skincare and hair products, can make a world of difference. These five beauty must-haves have helped me feel grounded and refreshed, and I hope they inspire you to take a moment for yourself, too.
Whether you’re all about clean beauty, luxury skincare, or just finding ways to keep your hair looking fabulous on those no-heat days, these products will help you feel your best—inside and out.
Let me know what your go-to beauty products are in the comments below!