It’s the most wonderful time of the month—Top Picks time! Boy, has it been a minute since I did one of these posts. They were always my favorite, so we’re bringing them back into the spotlight! If you’re new to the blog, Top Picks is a compilation of my favorite products of the month. This post series is just a fun way for me to introduce you to new brands and products, so sit back, and enjoy the read!
Wonder Valley Oil Cleanser
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Have you ever discovered a brand and been so incredibly impressed with how they presented themselves from a branding standpoint? That’s how I felt with Wonder Valley! It appeared as an ad on my Instagram feed and I was hooked from the get-go.
This gel-like oil cleanser is the perfect first step in any nightly cleansing routine. It’s formulated with antioxidant-rich Olive Oil, nourishing Avocado Oil, and Grapeseed Oil for improving skin elasticity. I use this oil cleanser each night, massaging it into my face to remove any makeup, dirt, or debris. After massaging for about 30 seconds, I put a bit of water into the palms of my hands to emulsify the cleanser.
I follow up with a water-based cleanser and continue with the rest of my routine! If you’re new to double cleansing, or you’re looking for an oil-based cleanser for acne-prone skin, I can’t recommend Wonder Valley enough.
Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil
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Outside of shampoo and conditioner, the only other hair care product that I regularly use is Olaplex’s No.7 Bonding Oil. This stuff is absolutely AMAZING! And don’t let the small bottle fool you—I’ve been using the same bottle for over a year now and it’s still going strong.
I have very thick, wavy hair that can get very frizzy throughout the day. This highly-concentrated oil adds just the right amount of shine while also acting as a heat protectant. Now, I know what you may be thinking. “Won’t a bonding oil make my hair oily faster?” Not necessarily!
When I use this product, I shake about three drops into the palm of my hand, then rub my hands together to warm it up. To apply, I focus on the ends of my hair first, then as my last ditch-attempt to tackle my frizzies, I very lightly apply to my roots.
ColourPop BFF Liquid Eyeliner Pen in Grande
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For the past year, I’ve been on a liquid liner kick! Maybe it was motivated by working from home and staring at myself on Zoom all day, but regardless, I don’t think my liquid liner phase is going to end any time soon! When I first started shopping for one, I’ll be honest . . . I had no brand or specific product in mind.
I literally walked into Ulta one Sunday, ended up in the ColourPop section, and decided to take a chance on this one. I was so impressed with how pigmented and long-wearing it was on my eyes! Plus—it’s super easy to use, especially if you don’t have the steadiest hand.
Alphascience Alpha Bright Serum
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I want to preface this by saying that I received this product from the brand because I worked with them at my old job. BUT! I can tell you with complete certainty that I will be buying this product once I run out. This stuff is like a supercharged vitamin C serum! It contains 8% stabilized L-Ascorbic Acid and 2% Phytic Acid, which are powerhouse ingredients for lightening dark spots and neutralizing sebum production.
I use this serum every morning, and apply about 3 drops to my face. You don’t need any more than that—it goes such a long way. Since I started using it three months ago, I’ve noticed a significant improvement with dark spots that formed as a result of blemishes. Dark spots fade faster now than they ever did with some of the other popular vitamin C serums that I’ve used.
If you need a comparison, this serum is gentler on the skin than SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic—and costs a fraction of the price.
Well, that’s all I have for you today! I hope you enjoyed this month’s Top Picks! And as always, if you have questions about any of these products, feel free to comment below or reach out!
Until next time!
Alicia