We’re down to the last month of the year, and before closing the decade, I feel like it’s only fitting that I share with you all my top beauty discoveries for 2019! These aren’t necessarily new products, but mostly existing ones that I only discovered, tried, and tested this year.
When I entered the world of beauty and experimented with different looks, one product I never really paid attention to was highlighter—simply because I already had oily skin, and didn’t want to look even oilier! But as the years passed, I realized that all it takes is the right product and technique to achieve that lit-from-within glow. And since then, I’ve loved incorporating highlighters in all of my looks. I’d use it not just for the high points of my face (cheekbones, tip of the nose, and cupid’s bow), but also my brow bones and inner eye corners. Rude’s Baked Highlighter was quite the game changer for me.
I first purchased a bottle of the liquid version early this year, and it was love at first sniff. The scent is subtle but addicting, and you just want to bask in its fragrance all day. But because it’s hard to bring the bottle everywhere, I decided to also purchase the solid version to keep in my purse—and I love that I can bring it with me everywhere! Sometimes, when I’m feeling down, I just take it out and inhale the scent—and all feels right in my introverted world again.
I was first introduced to this product when Dove invited me to its launch last July. At first, I was a little bit skeptic—but after two weeks of using the Collagen and Vitamin B3 variant, I was amazed that it did slightly even out my underarms and reduced the appearance of chicken skin. I’ve been using it since then, and I intend to buy another tube once I run out!
During a recent discussion with my best friend who also happens to be a dermatologist, she advised that the best product to incorporate into my skin care routine to prevent early signs of aging (especially now that I’m 30), is retinol. But retinol can be tricky, and can cause slight redness or irritation—especially if your skin still isn’t used to it. So it’s best to start with a low dose, before gradually increasing as you age. The Ordinary’s Retinol 0.5% in Squalene is a good introduction to anyone looking to add retinol for the first time. Just make sure to always wear SPF, as retinol makes your skin extra sensitive to the sun.
Over the years, my frequent hair fall problem due to stress has become one of my biggest insecurities. To prevent thinning hair, I invested in a bottle of Regroe Minoxidil. Though it’s only been a few months, I’m confident in seeing results (which is normally seen after six months). I suffer from less hair fall, and I’m slowly seeing baby hair in certain areas near my temples. They say it works even better if you pair it together with Pregroe’s Shampoo and Conditioner.
I tend to be a lipstick snob, and when I find a “flavor of the month,” it usually takes me a while to get over my obsession and try other products or brands. But a lipstick that I’m so glad I got to try when I was sent a few shades by L’Oreal was their Rogue Signature Matte Liquid Lipstick. I was instantly amazed by the lightweight and long-lasting formulation. The shade, I Am Worth It, is my favorite.
Perhaps one of my best beauty discoveries early this year—La Localita! I’ve purchased and re-purchased their Instalift Serum a few times to use on both my brows and lashes in the hopes of making them longer and thicker in time for my wedding last September. The effects were in full bloom when I got a lash lift just a few days before the big day—the lash technician who always does my lashes noticed that they were longer than the last time she did them!
Another favorite from La Localita is their clear Lash Express Mascara. As someone who frequently gets her lashes lifted, I also find ways to prolong it—and wearing clear mascara everyday surely does the trick. Because the Lash Express is infused with La Localita’s lash-growing ingredient as well, redensyl, it helps my lashes grow thicker and longer, too!
It was only this year that my interest in essential oils grew, and I think it was because Calyxta started carrying Botanicals in Bloom. I learned the different ways that you can use essential oils, including its benefits, so I decided to try it out for myself as well. It was most helpful especially for my dog who has separation anxiety, so every time I leave for work, I just diffuse lavender essential oil to help calm him down.
Gretchen is a writer, makeup artist, and the beauty and lifestyle blogger behind www.gretasjunkyard.com. Her love for beauty all started when she discovered the wonders of doing her brows with a good eyebrow pen. Despite her girly ways and obsession with skin care, she loves watching wrestling and gets competitive while playing Ultimate Frisbee.
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