holiday baking stuff

October 30, 2025 by all aflutter in Gifts For...

MY BOYS and I have a sweet holiday tradition of baking for all of our neighbors each year. We have so much fun spending that time together and are solid proof that your treats don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful and delicious [we #nailedit every time]. Baking is such a big part of the holiday tradition for a lot of people, I think because it’s just such a simple and beautiful way to connect and share a little yummy happiness. So before you fire up the mixer this year, check out these fun, festive baking tools and pretty displays that might make it even more special for years to come. I’ve included a bunch of awesome Holiday Cookbooks, too. And if you want more baking inspiration, check out the Gift Guide for Bakers and the Gift Guide for Baking Stuff for Kids + Teens. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

FUn Holiday Baking Stuff

XO Super festive holiday **Geometry Tea Towels** will make baking clean-up easy and cute XO
+ **Use code Darcie15 to save 15% on your order +**

XO This **Nordic Ware Star of David Bundt Pan** is so intricate and pretty XO

XO Give your baker’s treats the display they deserve with this sweet **2-Tier Glass Christmas Tree Cookie Jar** that keeps your peppermint bark separate from your maple bars [there’s also a pretty non-holiday 3-tiered version] XO

XO This **Rolling Holiday Cookie Cutter** is genius, laying down trees, snowflakes, stockings, snowmen and gingerbread men in one pass XO

XO **Great Jones Bakeware** comes in awesome colors that will brighten any holiday XO

XO Love this whole **Crow Canyon Home x Helmsie Collection,** especially that little Christmas Tree Tray for treats XO

XO How cute is this **Dash Dreidel Mini Waffle Maker?** XO

XO Meri Meri has THE cutest selection of Christmas baking accessories and decor XO

XO This **Build a Menorah Cookie Cutter Set** cleverly makes a set of mini cookies to share XO

XO Serve your adorable cookies on this adorable **NYC Ballet Platter** for an extra festive touch XO

XO Love this hand-painted **Ginger Loaf Pan,** it’s so festive and cute [there’s a Mini Loaf Pan, too] XO

XO **Crow Canyon Home’s Kids’ First Bake Set** is so adorable and perfect for a holiday session XO

XO This **Snowflake Embossed Rolling Pin** lays down a fun pattern while you roll your cookies XO

XO **Nordic Ware** has a sweet [enormous] selection of Holiday Cakelet, Bundt and Loaf Pans XO

XO Double wow your guests when you display your gorgeous treats on this gorgeous **Wicker Tiered Christmas Tree Server** XO

XO We use this **OXO Cookie Press Set** every year to make spritz cookies for our neighbors XO

XO Man Vs. Cakes has some truly awesome **Holiday Sprinkles** and **Sugars** XO

XO These festive **Baking Boxes** are such a fun way to share treats with neighbors + friends [add some cute printed Wax Paper, too] XO

XO This **Nordic Ware Stacking Cooling Rack** is absolutely brilliant for big-batch baking XO

XO These **Personalized Cookie Crew Aprons** would be so darn cute for a cookie party XO

Holiday Baking books

XO **The Pioneer Woman Cooks: A Year of Holidays** by Ree Drumond OX

XO **Jewish Holiday Baking** by Uri Scheft OX

XO **Christmas Baking** by Joyce Klynstra OX

XO **Holiday Cookies: Over 100 Very Merry Recipes** by Brian Hart Hoffman OX

XO **Betty Crocker’s Cooky Book** by Betty Crocker, of course OX

Xo **The Christmas Movie Cookbook** by Julia Rutland OX

XO **Baking for the Holidays** by Sarah Kieffer OX

XO **Modern Jewish Baker** by Shannon Sarna OX

XO **The Easy Christmas Cookie Cookbook** by Carroll Pellegrinelli OX

XO **Out of the Box Holiday Baking** by Hayley Parker OX

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my clean beauty + self-care favorites

October 06, 2025 by all aflutter in Gifts For..., Blog

THERE’S A LOT of buzz these days around ‘self care’ and I think it’s awesome. Any ‘fad’ that urges people to carve a few minutes out of each day to honor themselves, breath and prepare for whatever comes next is brilliant as far as I’m concerned. It’s so important to take that time to refresh, get a new perspective, be quiet [or loud]; any shift in focus toward your own health + wellness, whatever that looks like for you, is a total bonus. Walk, call a friend, doodle, journal, stretch, play loud music, meditate, howl at the moon, binge Emily in Paris, read a magazine, dance, cook, light a candle, bedazzle something, stare out the window for a minute, put in some ear plugs to block out your sweet kiddos for just a sec… WHATEVER feels good and refreshes you and that you can actually pull off each day is perfect and so beneficial. My daily self care always includes moving my body, even if it’s just a gentle 15-minute walk. And when I have the time to spend, I hide out in the bathroom and take a looong shower with ALL the stuff. I dry brush + shave + scrub + deep condition + mask and just focus on caring for my own strong body for an hour. It always refreshes me and, in turn, makes me a better mama and wife and sets me up for whatever is coming my way [which, let’s face it, could be ANYTHING these days].

I’VE ALWAYS been passionate about beauty products [man, I loved that giant Barbie head that you could make up], which is a little ironic because, while I’m pretty darn high maintenance about my skincare, I’m quite low maintenance about my makeup, especially these days. My social functions now most often involve walks or a hike in the woods and much to my 7-year-old self’s serious disappointment, I’m just not a gal who bothers to gussy up for the squirrels [sorry, girl]. And while I’ve long been interested in ‘clean’ or ‘green’ products [I DID grow up in Boulder], having babies totally sealed my commitment to making sure that the beauty products we use [and all of our household and cosmetic stuff] are as clean and toxin-free as possible, which, I’m not gonna lie, takes effort and can sometimes be a bit confusing.

THE TERMS ‘clean’ or ‘natural’ or ‘green’ beauty have become marketing buzz words and get thrown around pretty cavalierly A LOT [like ‘Clean at Sephora,’ which unfortunately means almost nothing as far as true clean ingredients are concerned] and it can make a person bananas trying to decipher it all. If you’ve ever gone down a DEEP dark rabbit hole trying to figure out what’s in your laundry soap, you know what I’m talking about. So for the most part, I just stick with retailers or brands that I trust to shoot me straight, like Beauty Heroes, The Detox Market or Credo Beauty and let the rest go, giving myself grace when necessary [I assure you there is no perfection happening here]. I also follow a few clean beauty experts who do the tough work to really dig in and help make sense of all of the madness. I find it interesting and enjoy the learning process, but if you just want to get to the good stuff without having to master a whole new vocabulary, my advice is to just stick with those companies that you know are striving for gold and ENJOY.

I’M ASKED so often by friends which clean beauty products I really LOVE, so I thought I’d share my current favorites with ALL of you and find out yours, too. These are all products that I’m currently using or that I’d buy again. It’s a dynamic list, so check back often to see updates on what I’m loving at the moment. And lovelies, I’m obvs not a skincare expert, just a gal who’s passionate about clean beauty and has tried A LOT of things over the years. So if you have particular concerns about your skin or skincare, you should for sure consult with an actual professional. I have gone that route in the past and found it totally worthwhile to get to the root of your particular concerns. Mine actually ended up being largely gut-health related, so you just never know and I think it’s worth the dive.

ENJOY this peaceful little moment, lovelies, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about my experience with these products, I’m always here for you. And please do share the things you’re loving, too, so we can all plot our next haul. I hope whatever you have going on today, you can carve out even just a few minutes for yourself to refresh and shift perspective, you totally deserve it. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS [to yourself, too]. xo

You can scroll or quickly JUMP TO: Cleansers + Toners + Mists | Serums + Oils | Moisturizers + Sun Care | Lips + Eyes | Masks + Scrubs | Makeup | Body + Hair | Beauty + Wellness Tools | My Wishlist

Maya Chia

OK I DON’T want to sound dramatic or anything, but Maya Chia has changed my life. Ok, my skin, which in turn impacts my life. I wasn’t able to use anything active on my face for a few years while I sorted out some issues and when my skin was finally ready, I sort of reluctantly, but hopefully, splurged on a bottle of The Straight A Serum assuming it would totally freak out my skin. But instead, it became maybe my favorite beauty product ever. Seriously. That was like 6 years ago.

MAYA CHIA’S mission and dedication to using science and painstaking research to create all of their innovative skincare pays off in a huge, beautiful way in every product I’ve tried. They have an intense method for extracting chia oil, the base of all of their products, in its purest and most potent form, which combined with the other organic, wildcrafted and consciously-sourced ‘super ingredients,’ makes really superior formulas. The Straight A has both encapsulated retinol [a safe derivative of vitamin A] and two forms of ‘botanical retinols’ that combine to make a seriously powerhouse formula. My skin was undeniably brighter and more radiant almost immediately when I started using it and over time, The Straight A has also helped reduce some pesky hyperpigmentation that’s been bothering me for years. I also love The Super Lift Vitamin C More, which has a temporary tightening + lifting effect that I can see after my morning skincare routine, but the long-term impact of this vitamin-packed treatment is even more impressive. I haven’t been disappointed in a Maya Chia product yet and basically ALL of their gorgeous things are on my list. It’s my ‘desert island’ skincare line.

THE DETOX Market

REMEMBER those ads in Seventeen Magazine where you could mail-order a 72-color eye shadow palette for just a penny [and then get a bill for $30 later]? I know my dad does because he had to write more than one stern letter to whomever advertised that pyramid scheme to naive tweens [sorry, dad]. Well, this is the 100% legitimate grown-up version of that totally amazing ‘too good to be true’ fantasy. And instead of hot pink eye shadow that’s ALL kinds of wrong for me, my monthly Detox Box sends me the creme de la creme of the newest and cleanest skincare and makeup. I have found new favorites that I probs never would’ve tried otherwise and I just get super giddy when it shows up. It’s such a great way to learn about new brands and to #giftalittlehappiness to yourself on the regular without even thinking about it. And if something arrives that’s not for me, I get to gift it to a friend and make their day. It’s just awesome and would make a fabulous gift for your BFF or MIL, too.

My Skincare Favorites

Cleansers + Toners + Mists

+ Doré is sexy French beauty in the simplest, most approachable package. They set out to develop the ‘white t-shirt of skincare’ so you can spend less time getting ready and more time living your life and it’s perfection. Plus ALL Doré products are EWG Verified, meaning they adhere to the very strictest standards for safety. I'm LOVING the gel-to-milk **Le Cleanser,** it’s incredibly gently, but super effective and leaves my skin feeling hydrated instead of stripped. I also love La Micellaire for an even deeper clean. And it’s super duper reasonably priced. Oui Oui. **+ $26**

+ Osea is a super clean brand that has been around since before ‘clean beauty’ was cool. They’re all about harnessing the healthy benefits of different types of seaweed to create lovely and super effective products. I love this **Ocean Cleanser,** which is gentle and moisturizing and doesn’t leave me feeling stripped. **+ $48**

+ I love most of Alpyn Beauty’s line and the **Creamy Bubbling Cleanser** is no exception. It foams in a satisfying way that most clean products don’t and is jammed with so many beneficial acids, vitamins and enzymes. Plus it doesn’t leave my skin feeling like a tight mess. **+ $36**

+ This **Tata Harper Regenerating Cleanser** is kind of like those awesome 80s style scrubs, but without the nasty microplastics that end up in the ocean. It’s SUPER gentle, but really effective at leaving you with a nice, smooth canvas. I use it several times a week for a little gentle exfoliation and it’s kind of game-changing for me. **+ from $46**

+ I love a facial mist and **Maya Chia’s The Optimist** feels and smells divine. It’s my first step after cleansing and I also give myself a little spritz when I’m headed out and need a little freshening up. It feels fresh and calming and lovely and has a bunch of really potent, nourishing ingredients. **+ $59**

+ I love this **Yina The Essential Mist** so much. It’s a blend of Chinese medicinal plants, adaptogens and prebiotics that provides a powerhouse of gorgeous protective and reparative nutrients for your skin. Love this stuff. **+ $75**

+ **Laurel’s Hydrating Elixir 1** is so gorgeous. If you’re not familiar with Laurel Skin, you should go on a happy little dive into her world of super slow, very intentional, locally-sourced beauty. Her deep connection to the natural world is super evident in her formulations. This Elixir is brimming with SO many gorgeous plant extracts and artisan distilled single- farm hydrosols that I could never name them all, but the ingredients read like a recipe for botanical magic. This particular blend is designed for mature, sensitive or reactive skin and mine loves it. Plus it smells just heavenly. **+ $68**

+ This **Odacité Blue Aura Cleansing Water** has so many incredible ingredients that I couldn’t possibly list them all, including aloe juice and Ayurvedic herbs like turmeric, holy basil and neem that combat skin-damaging pollutants. I’ve used it intermittently for years and I love it. It doesn’t leave my face feeling dry or stripped and def has an impact on my complexion. **+ $39**

Serums + Oils

+ You know how sometimes you’re like ‘I think I like this, but I can’t tell if it’s doing anything?’ Yeah, **Maya Chia’s The Straight A** is NOT that product. It has undeniably brightened + evened out my skin and generally just made it so much better right before my eyes. It has super potent ingredients in it, but is gentle and doesn’t freak out my skin at all. It’s really at the tippy top of my list. **+ $125**

+ I was a bit skeptical about this **Maya Chia The Super Lift Vitamin C-More** at first. I mean a claim of instantly ‘tightening and lifting’ your skin sounds like a ‘wait there’s more’ TV ad. But I trust Maya Chia and love their products, so I gave it a shot and it’s just awesome. It has 3 types of vitamin C that have def brightened and smoothed my skin, plus protects it from the elements. As for the temporary tightening and lifting - I mean, I don’t look like JLo or anything, but it does for sure make a difference in the appearance of my skin for the day, especially around my eyes. I love it. **+ $110**

+ During the dryest of dry months in Colorado, I need to mix things up and this **Alpyn Beauy Instant Glow Serum** is perfect for when you need a bit more moisture from your vitamin C serum. It’s super plush and silky and nourishing. It makes a big difference in the quality of my skin, especially when I need major hydration. It has bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative to retinol, so it’s a great choice if you’re super sensitive. The vitamin C protects against environmental damage. And I love that it’s a bit more reasonably priced than some other comparable serums. WIN. **+ $54**

+ I can use all the moisture I can get, especially in the winter, and this **Osea Hyaluronic Sea Serum** is an essential part of that hydration process. I’ve been using it for years now and still can’t get overthe crazy moisture barrier it creates on my skin. I can feel it when I rinse my face in the morning and I love it so much. I use it on top of my Straight A and under my moisturizer for extra defense against the elements. **+$88**

+ This **Ursa Major Forest Water Hyaluronic Serum** has a gel-like, viscous, hydrating texture that feels super amazing on my skin, especially when it’s parched. It has a significant impact on my complexion and skin texture. It’s a great alternative to the Osea at 2/3 the price. Love it. **+ $56**

+ Way back in the very first edition of Things I Love I introduced you to **Essentialist’s Daily Renewal Facial Oil.** I had never used an oil regularly before and fell HARD for this incredible product. I have since tried several other oils and none of them hold a candle to this gorgeous product for my skin. It’s super natural, not at all oily and makes a huge difference in the nourishment, hydration level and look of my skin. It has become, well, an ‘essential’ part of my skincare routine. I use it as a last step morning and night. **+ $88**

Moisturizers + Sun Care

+ I LOVE **Alpyn Beauty’s Super Peptide & Ghostberry Barrier Repair Cream.** I love the silky texture, it’s a little bit thick [which I love], but super lightweight and really effective. It’s formulated with 8 peptides and 5 ceramides and some beautiful botanicals and it just smooths on really well. Barrier creams are formulated to protect your skin from external damage and from losing moisture [as opposed to a moisturizer that’s designed to hydrate the outer layers of your skin], so you def want to put this on last. LOVE it. **+ $62**

+ **Maya Chia’s The Advanced Response Complex** [ARC] is just straight AH-mazing. This gorgeous neck + face cream is formulated to encourage your skin to fire up its own mechanisms for regenerating, smoothing, brightening and tightening itself. So… It’s kind of miraculous and from the first time I used it, I could see and feel a major difference in my skin, which at the time was a bit dull from lots of summer sunshine. It’s a gorgeous texture, too, substantial but not greasy or heavy. **+ $125**

+ **Yina Hydracloud Cream** is deceptively hydrating and effective for how lightweight and silky it feels. It’s formulated with a unique combination of East Asian plants, including a blend of 5 different types of Ginseng that each have a powerful purpose. I really love this cream, especially in the warmer months. **+ $98**

+ **Tata Harper’s Reparative Moisturizer** is so silky and lightweight that I was sure it wouldn’t do anything [I like my creams THICK], but I was SO wrong. It’s incredibly nourishing and full of hyaluronic acid and a big bunch of powerful plants that leave you hydrated and with fewer fine lines. I’ve read some complaints about the smell, but it doesn’t bother me and soaks right in. **+ $98**

+ **Le Prunier’s Plumscreen SPF 31** is a revelation. I have been searching for years for a clean broad-spectrum sunscreen that doesn’t have a weird texture or leave you with a ghostly sheen and this is IT. It’s formulated with their cult-favorite Plum Beauty Oil [which I also love] and is so velvety silky smooth. It leaves absolutely no trace of a white cast or that weird zinc smell and imbues your skin with antioxidant-rich superfoods while it protects. It’s def more expensive than what I have been using, but it lasts me forever even with everyday use. LOVE this stuff. **+ $78**

+ I LOVE **Tower28’s Sunny Days SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen.** Tower28 is a clean[er], cool brand dedicated to sensitive skin, in fact, this is the first product endorsed by the National Eczema Association. It’s a broad-spectrum SPF formula that comes in 14 shades [I like Ocean Park]. It goes on smooth, doesn’t feel heavy or greasy and doesn’t get all caught up in my wrinkles. It leaves my skin looking even, but not made up, and maintains the moisture that it so badly needs. It’s basically awesome. **+ $32**

Eyes + Lips

+ More Alpyn Beauty for the win. The **Instant Bright Eye** is THE best eye cream product I’ve ever tried. It’s SUPER nourishing, doesn’t bother my super sensitive eyes and is packed with peptides and niacinamide. It’s also a peachy color that blends in and ‘blurs’ the dark circles under your eyes, so I actually wear it during the day, slathering it on as a last step after my sunscreen. Love it. **+ $52**

+ These little **100% Pure Bright Eyes Masks** are the only ones I’ve ever tried that actually really work. They have a massive amount of caffeine from several clean sources, plus aloe, and they def de-puff my eyes. You can buy one pair or a 5 Pack. I like their Organic Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream, too. **+ from $7**

+ So, when my roommate in college first suggested I pluck my bushy eyebrows I really had no idea that it would become a decades-long habit. Combine that with the glory of aging, and I recently found myself with lashes and brows that did not represent. I have super sensitive eyes [like I can’t use most eye creams] so I’d been reluctant to try a lash serum in the past. Plus most of them have a bunch of weird chemicals in them that end up directly in your mucous membrane. So when Maya Chia introduced the super clean **Power Fol Eyelash + Eyebrow Serum,** I decided to give it a shot. SO glad I did. It doesn’t bother my eyes AT ALL and has def made a difference in the coverage and fullness of my lashes + brows. I wish I’d taken a before + after, but I can for sure tell. **+ $110**

+ I looove **Alpyn Beauty’s Willow & Sweet Agave Plumping Lip Mask.** It’s a whole lot of words to say that this little tube is full of good stuff that leaves your lips so much softer than before. I am super fussy about my lip goo and this hits all of my ‘must haves’ [and my ‘must nots’]. It’s not sticky, is actually hydrating, doesn’t have a strong taste or smell and keeps my lips from getting cracked or peel-y, especially in the winter. I put it on every night before bed and my lips still feel moist when I wake up. It just keeps them super healthy and happy and I’ve gifted it to sooo many people because I love it so much. YAY. **+ $28**

+ I find that many lip products leave my lips feeling even more dry and parched than before. Ah, no thanks. But this **Ilia Lip Wrap Overnight Treatment** is awesome. It’s hydrating and smooth and exfoliates your lips while you sleep. It has no scent or taste, which is key for me, and it just feels nice. This is a great option if you’re super sensitive, but want a product that actually works. **+ $26**

+ I get super excited when I find a lip balm that doesn’t actually dry out my lips even more and this **Poppy & Pout Lip Balm** is awesome. It’s super hydrating and the scent is subtle and natural so it doesn’t bother my sensitive nose. I’ve tried several ‘flavors’ now and I love them all. And it’s made in Idaho with only 5 ingredients and poured into a cardboard tube that’s totally recyclable. I’ve also gifted a bunch of these beauties. **+ $9.95**

Masks + Scrubs

+ I got this **Activist Manuka Honey Mask** in my Beauty Heroes Discovery delivery a few years back and it’s really nice. It has one simple, but super potent and high quality ingredient and it leaves my face feeling really clean, calm and clear. I love it especially when my skin is feeling a bit off balance or gets too much sun or wind. **+ $65**

+ This **Blissoma Lavish Loving Recovery Mask** is heavenly, especially if I’ve had too much exposure to the elements. It’s incredibly calming, moisturizing and nourishing and feels amazing. It goes on thick and silky, but doesn’t feel cloggy or harsh. I love it after skiing or when my skin is a bit off from weather or wear. **+ $69**

+ Ok, this **GOOPGLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator** was 100% love at first site. Or first use. Whatever the case, my skin LOVES it and the name really kind of says it all. It gives you instant bright, glowing + radiant skin. It’s an awesome double whammy of both a physical and chemical exfoliant - I scrub it on gently in circles for the physical and then leave it on for a few minutes while I do my other stuff for the chemical. It’s gentle enough not to bother my sensitive-ish skin but the result is seriously instantaneous and awesome. The first time I used it I looked like I’d had ‘work’ done. It’s fantastic. I use it once or twice a week and really love it. **+ from $42**

+ This **Laurel Honey Berry Mask** feels a bit like a li’l layer of sticky Smuckers on your face, but It leaves my skin super soft, smooth, bright and clear. It’s one of my favorite masks, especially when my skin is a bit off or freaked out. **+ $64**

Makeup

+ This **Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40** is the closest I get to a foundation. It’s awesome. The coverage is light, but enough for me, and it’s super hydrating so it doesn’t settle into my wrinkles and make them look worse like some products do. It comes in like 87 shades, so you’ll def find one that works for you. I hoped when it launched that it could act as my daily SPF, but it’s just a bit too thick for that, especially when I’m working out + sweating. But for a low maintenance makeup person, this is perfection. **+ $48**

+ I love a multitool and this **Gen See Clean Sheen Cheek + Lip** is versatile, so pretty and easy to use. It’s buildable and blendable and a little goes a long way. I like Lychee for my complexion, just a little dab on the cheeks and a swipe on the lips and I’m ready to go. **+ $24**

+ I love this **Ilia Multi-Stick Cream Blush + Highlighter + Lip Tint** so much. It can be as subtle or as pop-y as you like, it doesn’t get stuck in my wrinkles and it comes in a ton of pretty colors for every skin tone. It’s easy to apply, too, and doesn’t stain. I use Dreamer on cheeks and lips and it’s perfect for me. **+ $36**

+ **Saie** is a gorgeous clean beauty brand that combines sophistication with accessibility. I really love their Glossybounch Hydrating Lip Gloss Oil and SuperSuede Powder Blush. I have the Dew Blush on my list. The lip shades look super bright, but they’re sheer and blend perfectly when they’re on. People also love the Slip Tint Tinted Moisturizer SPF, but I haven’t tried it yet. It’s all super clean and lovely. +

+ I love the way this **Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara** doesn’t clump up my lashes. It goes on really smoothly because the unique brush has a different pattern on each side, one that lets you lift and separate while applying. It also has a bunch of super nourishing ingredients and it doesn’t bother my sensitive eyes. Love it. **+ 29**

+ Ok, this **Tower28 MakeWaves Mascara** won the Allure Best of Beauty award BEFORE it even launched. So… there’s been a lot of hype and I think it’s totally deserved. Tower28 is formulated for sensitive skin and this def doesn’t mess with my super sensitive eyes. I love the silky, lightweight formula and the applicator, which combine to give you a super smooth and not at all clumpy look. It’s awesome. **+ $20**

+ **Westman Atelier Squeaky Clean Liquid Lip Balm** ticks all of the boxes for me and my fussy lip needs. It has no bothersome taste or smell, isn’t sticky or tacky, has universally flattering colors and is super hydrating even after wearing it for a while. I have Cool Beige and it’s a pretty, neutral with enough hint of color for me. **+ $38**

+ Love the **Tower28 LipSofties** even though they actually violate one of top my lip goo rules - they smell. But yummy. Not in a saccharine sweet Lip Smacker kind of way, but in a subtle, yummy way. Dulce de Leche and Red Bean Mochi are my favorites. They’re both super pretty neutrals. And the SOS Clear Balm is in my car, bag or pocket at the ready at ALL times. I also love Tower28 ShineOn Lip Jelly [love Pistachio]. **+ $16**

+ I also love this **Exa All Smiles Universal Glow Lip Oil.** It’s not sticky, doesn’t smell, has a little hint of shimmer and is super hydrating. The colors looks wild, but they’re sheer and pretty. LOVE it. **+ $15**

+ **Kosas’ Wet Lip Oil Gloss** is super hydrating and not sticky or stinky, so… I love it. It’s intended to ‘plump’ but I can’t make that claim, I don’t notice a difference. I will say it doesn’t feel all bee-stingy like some plumping glosses [personally do NOT like that feeling] and instead just feels really nourishing. Unhooked is an everyday go-to shade for a no-fuss, but put together vibe. **+ $24**

Body + Hair

+ I’m a little obsessed with this **Nécessaire Body Wash** in Santal. Is it weird to say that it smells a bit like perfume and cigarettes in the best possible way? It just does; the bright scent has a smoky undertone and it’s just yum. It also feels great. The scent makes it slightly less ‘clean’ by EWG standards than it could be, but I love it. **+ from $28**

+ I LOVE the smell of this **Bathing Culture Mind and Body Wash** and it’s so hydrating. It’s full of aloe, coconut oil, olive oil, shea butter and all kinds of super nourishing things and I love it. It’s a very gender-neutral scent, so it’s also a go-to gift for dudes and teenage boys. **+ from $10**

+ If you follow along, you already know that I LOVE **Nopalera's Cactus Flower Exfoliant.** This scrub is smooth and lovely and has such a gorgeous subtle scent that I adore [love both the Tangerine and the Hibiscus]. It leaves my skin feeling super nourished and dewy, it’s perfect for the super dry Colorado air. I also love the Dulce de Cuerpo Cactus Shower Gel, it has a really a sexy scent. **+ $32**

+ This **Herbivore Coco Rose Body Polish** is smooth and takes off what you need without leaving you feeling stripped or greasy. The scent is subtle and could go grandma with the rose, but is beautifully balanced with the coconut to leave it more modern than dusty. I use it in the shower, but also as a hand scrub before bed when I get sandpaper hands that need serious attention. **+ $40**

+ No matter the season, my skin is way better off with **Kate Mcleod’s Body Stones and Pebbles.** Made with coco butter and powerful fatty acids, the Body Stone leaves your skin insanely soft and nourished. I swipe it on right out of the shower and don’t need any other moisturizer, which says a lot in crazy dry Colorado. And the heavenly Shower Pebbles are concentrated cocoa butter, plant oils and exfoliants that melt onto your skin with hot water, turning your bath or shower into a full spa and leaving skin impossibly soft. I use it once a week or so and love how it makes my skin feel. It doesn’t leave my tub all slippery and the scent is subtle and nice. LOVE them. They also make fabulous gifts. **+ from $38**

+ I am super fussy about my body lotion. I don’t like thin or watery lotion. I don’t want any lingering scent. I don’t love a pump because it leaves you with like 1/4 of the bottle stuck at the bottom. Tough crowd, right? What I do LOVE is **The Seaweed Bath Co. Body Cream.** I’ve been using it for years and it’s super consistent, thick but not greasy and has no gross chemicals. And they do make scented versions if that’s your jam. Love their Collagen Hand Cream, too. **+ $12.99**

+ A good hand cream is absolutely essential in CO and this **Prima Skin Therapy** is my current favorite. It’s thick and luscious and smells heavenly. It’s jammed with 5 organic oils and butters and is deeply hydrating. You can use it on your whole body, too. And it’s packaged beautifully, so it would be a fabulous gift. So good. **+ $38**

+ I discovered this magical **French Girl Nail & Cuticle Oil** last spring after a series of manicures left my nails peeling and in bad shape. It healed them in days and I’ve been using it every night ever since. It’s super nourishing and keeps my nails and cuticles super healthy. I love it so much. **+ $26**

+ I also like the **Manicurist Complete Serum.** It’s not greasy like an oil, so it’s a bit tidier if you don’t love the feeling of oil on your hands or want to use it on the go without waiting for it to soak in [like at your desk]. It’s water-based, super nourishing and helps heal cracks. The texture makes it a bit more friendly for travel, too. **+ $15**

+ I’ve tried a lot of natural deodorants and I love **Salt & Stone’s Neroli & Basil.** It smells amazing and works well. If I have a super duper sweaty workout, it can leave white marks, but in a normal day, it’s perfect. It’s also baking soda-free if that’s a concern. They also have a Mini Deodorant Discovery Set for travel or to test out all the yummy scents. **+ $20**

+ I love the way this **Little Seed Deodorant Cream** works and smells [I have the Activated Charcoal version]. It’s aluminum and baking soda-free and it really does work. The cream application takes a little getting used to though. I use the round edge of a guasha to apply it, which works well. It’s a little bit of an extra step, but if you don’t mind, it’s super clean, made by hand and effective. It comes in 8 scents, too. **+ $13.99**

+ I love this minty **Innersense True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub** especially in the summer when I’m sweaty or in a bunch of sand. I give myself a good scalp massage with it a few times a month and it leaves my hair + head feeling tingly, squeaky clean and energized. My teenage son loves it, too. **+ $42**

+ I was a bit skeptical of **Lolavie** at first, curious if it was actually clean or just another fad celebrity brand. But I’ve been SO pleasantly surprised that it’s both super clean and very awesome. I like the whole ‘system’ together with the Restorative Shampoo, Restorative Conditioner, Glossing Detangler and Perfecting Leave-In. And the minis are perfection for travel. **+ from $15**

+ I love **EVOLVh’s Ultra Shine Shampoo** and **Conditioner**. I can really tell the difference in the texture of my hair when I use them together, especially as my grays are starting to multiply and change the landscape a bit. I also love the E **VOLVh Smart Volume Leave-In Conditioner.** It’s a great detangler and doesn’t leave my hair feeling heavy or coated, just smooth and silky. **+ from $26**

+ Have I mentioned yet that Colorado is dry? I mean. It’s part of what I love about my home state, but it can wreak havoc on a gal’s skin + hair. A few times a week I use this **Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask** and it leaves my hair super healthy, soft, shiny and ready for the elements. It’s a life saver. **+ $38**

+ Ok, it feels a bit silly to get super geeked out over a hairbrush, but the **Maya Chia 3-in-1 Brush Tool** has kind of changed my hair. I notice less breakage, way fewer flyaways and get a much smoother blowout. It’s also compact enough for travel. Plus it’s just super blingy and makes me feel fancy. I really love it. **+ $48**

+ My sweet hubs surprised me with this **Liis Bo** a few Valentine’s Days ago [bold move, right?] and I loved it so much I ordered the sample set for travel and to try out the other scents. I honestly can’t decide which one I like best, I would buy all of them if I could and alternate or layer them. They’re super clean and bright and well balanced. **+$165**

+ **Cocofloss** turned me into a regular flosser at age 46 with their 21-Day Smile Care Challenge. I love the texture of Cocofloss, the refillable dispenser [I’ve refilled mine like 15 times], the impressive way it’s made and the generous spirit of the sisters who started the brand. I’m also completely devoted to the Cocobrush and Cocoshine Whitening Toothpaste. Pretty much ALL the stuff. **+ from $9**

Beauty + Wellness Tools

+ My boys are super scared of my **Omnilux Contour Face Mask,** but I LOVE it. I use it a few times a week for just 10 blissful minutes and without a shadow of doubt have seen a real change in my skin. The fine lines, pigmentation and my mild rosacea are all def improved since I started using it. I just turn on a podcast or audiobook and sit back for a few chill minutes while it works its magic and I truly love it. If you’re considering red light therapy and want to hear more about my experience, reach out, I’d love to chat. But know that I LOVE this thing and think it’s worth every penny [It’s basically the cost of two facials, but will last much longer]. I’m totally eyeing the Contour Neck and Décolleté next. **+ $395**

+ I love this little **Solawave 3-Minute Pimple Spot Treatment** for breakouts. You just hold it over your zit for 3 minutes and let it zap the blemish with its combo of blue and red light. It’s not a miracle, like your zit won’t be magically instantly gone, but I do think it def helps accelerate the healing process. It’s great for travel and teens, too. **+ $69**

+ **Solawave’s Red Light Therapy Wand** combines 4 powerful technologies to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots and blemishes [hello, I have ALL the things]. When I use it consistently, I can totally see a difference in specific dark spots, areas of fine lines and overall quality of my complexion. I use the Osea Hyaluronic Sea Serum with it and the combo is super effective for such a li’l tool. It’s a perfect solution if a full mask isn’t in the cards for you [though they have those, too] or want a compact travel buddy. **+ $169**

+ I’m so happy that dry brushing has all of these amazing lymphatic benefits, but what I love each time I use my **Goop G.Tox Ultimate Dry Brush** is the amazing benefit to my skin. It feels awesome, like a bear [gently] scratching its back on a tree. You slough away all the dead skin and leave a perfect canvas for what comes next. I love the long handle on this one. **+ $25**

+ This **Detox Mode Body Crescent** is meant to stimulate the lymphatic system, sooth sore muscles and reduce the look of cellulite. It’s a bit like giving yourself a deep tissue massage. If you want a spa-like treatment at home, pair this with some Prima Beyond Body Oil [or any oil you love]. after a hot shower. **+ $15**

+ I LOVE my silk pillowcase. Silk is less absorbent than other natural fibers, so it doesn’t suck up your skin’s natural oils or your precious overnight products [I ruined SO many cotton pillowcases]. And because silk is a bit slippery, there is less friction and less tugging on your hair and skin. I have been super happy with this **Lilysilk** version, which not only feels super luxurious, but is also OEKO-TEX certified, so you can rest knowing you’re not laying on gross chemicals. You can even have a whole bed full of Silk Sheets if that’s your fancy. Ooh la la. **+ from $39**

+ **Cadence Capsules** have solved every issue I’ve ever had with travel containers. They’re leakproof, easy to clean, perfectly sized and pack well. I use them for cosmetics, supplements, jewelry + meds and they’re absolutely perfect. I’ve reordered like 5 times because I keep finding new uses for them and have now gifted a few to my husband, too. +

+ Ok, this is obvs not clean beauty, but it does pertain to my wellness, so it’s on the list. These **Port + Polish Pill Cases** are perfect for travel. I got one and then bought another, so I have one for my morning supplements and a separate one for the nighttime set. They don’t hold a ton, so if you’re carrying a lot of big pills, it might not be the best solution, but for a few medium to smalls, it’s perfect. + **$20**

On my wishlist

+ **Doré’s Le Sérum** is packed with vitamin C and sounds amazing, especially for the price. **+ $40**

+ **Kosas Soulgazer Mascara** is makeup and lash nourishment in one. It’s full of peptides to boost your lash health and promote growth while also making your lashes look long and luscious. Sounds perfect. **+ $28**

+ So aside from being my favorite color, this **Maya Chia The Refresh Mint Moisturizing Mask** has 4 different acids to brighten your skin, plus enzymes and hydrators. Um, yes please. Plus it’s cooling, tingly mint. **+ $68**

+ This **Mara Algae Retinol Oil** has a potent mix of retinol, green tea extracts and algae and it looks awesome. **+ $120**

my day + night clean skincare routine

October 05, 2025 by all aflutter in Gifts For...

YOU KNOW I LOVE my clean skincare. Aside from the obvious benefits to my skin and body, I also just love opening up a brand new bottle or jar of some gorgeous elixir and taking in the color, texture and smell of it, like an exotic spice you’ve never cooked with before [this is why my Beauty Heroes Discovery subscription is magic]. There are a growing number of really notable clean beauty brands that have spent countless intentional hours, months and years researching and developing products that harness the inherent natural benefits of super powerful plants around the globe to target specific skin concerns and there is def no longer a feeling that you’re ‘settling’ with clean beauty - it performs as well or better than the chemical stuff out there with the added bonus of eliminating the toxins and actively working toward sustainability. A total win-win of the best kind.

HOWEVER, IT can be super confusing to know when to use all that stuff and which products you actually ‘need.’ While the need part is entirely personal to your skin concerns [and 100% up for debate], the order of operations does have a bit of rhyme + reason behind it and you want to make sure you’re getting the max benefit from those gorgeous [often expensive] elixirs that have been so carefully crafted. So I’ve put together a little peek into my own skincare routine for you, with the products I’m currently loving, the order in which I use them and why in hopes that it might clear up some questions.

IN GENERAL, despite my deep love of skincare products, the less you can get away with doing to your face, the better, so your skin can maintain its natural balance. Just like with anything else in your body, adding a few things to enhance its miraculous natural function is magic, but if you overdo it, your body might fight back and so will your skin. It’s a lesson I’ve learned SOOO MANY times. It can be hard to resist the urge to use ALL the stuff, especially when things are off balance, but your skin [and body] will thank you for using a bit of restraint. That said, everyone’s tolerance is obvs different and if your skin loves ALL the stuff, then totally go for it. If you’re a person whose skin likes almost none of the stuff [been there], you already know about that restraint and should find the few things that are serious powerhouses for you and stick with them.

I HAVE been using the same set of products for quite a while now and I have a good, effective routine down [which in no way keeps me from occasionally trying other beautiful things]. Lovelies, as always, I am obvs not a skincare professional and have learned these things from both trial + error and from reading a lot about skin health and skincare, because I find it super interesting. As always, if you have questions, do reach out. I love to chat clean beauty and would be so happy to hear what you’re using and loving. Check out the post on My Clean Beauty Favorites for much more on why I adore each of these beautiful products and many others. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

My Morning Skincare Routine

STEP 1. RINSE
I start the day with a little splash of cool water on my face. That’s it. I stopped cleansing in the morning a while back because it’s usually not really necessary and leaving it alone can help preserve your skin’s natural barrier. It’s working really well for me.

STEP 2. MIST
I kick things off with a big healthy cloud of Maya Chia’s The Optimist. The scent is straight heavenly and it feels super refreshing and nice. It’s a gorgeous mix of aloe, chia, licorice and a whole bouquet of other super nourishing and powerful plants to set my skin up for the products that come next. I also LOVE Yina’s The Essential Mist for another great option.

STEP 3. SERUM
Next comes the protective layer. I’ve been using Maya Chia’s The Super Lift Vitamin C More for a year or two and absolutely love it. It’s magic. I’m also loving Alpyn Beauty’s Instant Glow Serum, which has a more supple, silky, hydrating texture [almost like an oil] that feels super amazing on my skin, especially when it’s parched. It has vitamin c, bearberry and bakuchiol that help protect your skin from environmental damage, even skin tone, reduce lines and on and on… The gist is that both of these powerhouse products [or others like it] set you up for the day to protect your skin from stressors, while actively combating fine lines and hyperpigmentation. I use these two interchangeably depending on how my skin is feeling.

STEP 4. MOISTURIZER
I’ve been using and loving Alpyn Beauty’s Super Peptide & Ghostberry Moisturizer for about a year now. I love the silky texture and ‘thickness’ of the cream. It’s formulated with 8 peptides and 5 ceramides and some beautiful botanicals. And there is no overpowering scent [or one at all], which is important to me. I also really like Tata Harper’s Repairative Moisturizer. It’s deceivingly lightweight for the powerful moisturizing punch it delivers.

STEP 5. SUNCSCREEN
I use it every day, no matter the weather or what’s on my calendar. Even if you’re just sitting in front of your glaring computer screen all day, sunscreen will help protect you from the skin-damaging light that it emits, too. I searched for YEARS for a clean sunscreen that I love and recently fell hard for TWO of them [yay!]. I use Tower28’s Sunny Days SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen and Le Prunier’s Plumscreen interchangeably depending on whether I care about having the tint.

The Sunny Days is super reasonably priced, broad spectrum, designed for sensitive skin and has really nice light coverage that just evens everything out. I’ve sweated in it and it’s been great. If I know I’m gonna get super duper sweaty [like running in 90-degree heat sweaty] than I personally opt for no tint. And while this tinted version is WAY cleaner than the one I was using for years, there are still a few ingredients in it that I don’t love [ex. I try to avoid Phenoxyethanol], so I’ll keep exploring, but this is def ‘better’ and working for me for now. The Plumscreen is def on the more expensive side, but it lasts FOREVER. It’s broad spectrum, so silky smooth, leaves zero white cast, doesn’t smell sunscreen-y and feels super hydrating. I’ve been sharing it with my 13-year-old son and it’s magic for him, too.

STEP 6. LIPS + PITS
I put a luscious little swipe of Alpyn Beauty’s Willow & Sweet Agave Plumping Mask on the lips and some Salt & Stone Neroli & Basil in the pits [for obvious reasons].

STEP 7. SCENT
I love a little spritz of gorgeous Liis Bo [or any of their scents] under my shirt and I’m off.

My Nighttime Skincare Routine

STEP 1. CLEANSE
I use Osea’s Ocean Cleanser every night before bed. I like to get the day off my face; to clear away the sweaty workouts and messy cooking and whatever else I’ve come across during my day. I love this cleanser because it’s super lightweight and moisturizing and doesn’t leave me with that squeaky stripped feeling. Every few days I swap that out for Tata Harper’s Regenerating Cleanser for a super gentle exfoliating wash. It’s one of the most subtle and perfect exfoliants I’ve used and I love it.

STEP 2: RED LIGHT MASK
On the nights when I can squeeze in 10 minutes for my Omnilux, this is where it comes into the process. You want to use it with clean skin. I use mine for 10 minutes a few times a week and it has without a doubt improved my complexion, smoothed fine lines and changed the overall texture and appearance of my skin. It feels a bit painful to shell out $395 for a skincare tool, but when you consider that it costs the same as two facials or a few in-office red light treatments, but you get to use it forever, it becomes a no-brainer. I really love mine.

STEP 3. MIST
I start AND finish my day with Maya Chia’s The Optimist and it feels and smells just as heavenly in the evening. The HA serum that follows this step NEEDS moisture, so you might as well layer in something like The Optimist that’s going to add beautiful value to your skin in so many ways.

STEP 4. SERUM
If you’ve been follow me for any amount of time, you already know that I LOVE Maya Chia’s The Straight A. It is a magical serum that has changed my skin and I think it’s essential. It combines 3 types of super gentle but powerful retinols with vitamins C and E and some super nourishing botanicals [including their signature chia seeds] to combat hyperpigmentation + fine lines and leave your skin super bright and nourished. Because this is the ‘active’ part of my nightly routine, I apply it first to get the most benefit from it. I let it settle in completely before moving on to the next steps and just soak it all in, both literally and figuratively. Use this only at night and make sure to use sunscreen during the day with any retinol product. Sometimes I get curious to try other serums and then always come right back to this because it just works so well for me.

STEP 5. HA SERUM
I’ve been using Osea’s Hyaluronic Sea Serum for a few years now and can’t get over the crazy moisture barrier it creates on my skin. I can still feel it when I rinse my face in the morning and I love it so much. Hyaluronic acid is a humectant, meaning it’s like a serious moisture magnet and will pull water from anywhere it can [including deeper layers of your skin, which is why you need to have a damp face before applying]. Hyaluronic acid is already present in your body, but like lots of other things, diminishes as you age, so adding a serum can help plump up lines and wrinkles. It’s also used for scar and wound healing, so might help heal acne scars and other damage on your skin’s surface. I LOVE this stuff and it’s now an essential part of my routine. I also love the Ursa Major Forest Water Hyaluronic Serum and it’s about 2/3 the price.

STEP 6. MOISTURIZER
I LOVE Maya Chia’s The ARC for nighttime [and often daytime, too]. The ARC [Advanced Response Complex] is a crazy potent combo of amino acids, peptides and antioxidants that come together to address just about all of your possible concerns and it feels super nourishing and smooth. My skin soaks this stuff up any season of the year. It’s designed for nighttime use, but I use it many mornings, too, because my skin can handle it and it’s just goodness. I will say that I don’t love the packaging it comes in [the dispenser sometimes craps out on me and I wish they’d use glass], BUT I love it so much that I overlook this inconvenience and use it anyway. It’s just that good. I am also loving Mara’s Seadream Algae Cream, it’s thick, but not greasy and my skin drinks it up.

STEP 7. OIL
Essentialist’s Daily Renewal Facial Oil is the last step in my routine. Face oils seem to confuse people most as far as timing and functionality and I totally get it. I was scared to try it, too, thinking like lots of people do, that it was just a greasy and weird layer that I didn’t need. BUT it is neither of those things and has really changed the texture and quality of my skin. Face oil is NOT a moisturizer and unlike the HA, it’s not a humectant that pulls in moisture, either. A face oil’s job is to keep the moisture you already have locked in like a little seal. Which is why it’s most effective as the last step in your skincare routine, on TOP of your moisturizer [it’s called an ‘occlusive’ if you want to nerd out with me]. If you want to be a ‘glazed donut’ at bedtime, this is the step you don’t want to skip. I’ve tried several face oils and always come back to Essentialist’s. It’s super natural, not at all oily and makes a huge difference in the texture of my skin, especially in the driest months. LOVE it.

STEP 8. LIPS + EYES
I love several lip products right now, which is rare because I’m pretty fussy about them [I don’t want them to smell or taste like anything, be sticky or make my lips dryer than when I started]. My top 4 are Alpyn Beauty’s Willow & Sweet Agave Plumping Mask, Ilia’s Lip Wrap Overnight Treatment and Poppy & Pout Lip Balm. I love and use all of them interchangeably and carry one or more of them everywhere I go [see a whole collection of the lip goos I love here]. And I slather on Alpyn Beauty’s Instant Bright Eye. It’s really nourishing and moisturizing and doesn’t bother my sensitive eyes at all.

STEP 9. NAILS + HANDS
I was having some issues with my nails after a series of manicures left them peeling and in pretty bad shape. I started using French Girl Organic Cuticle Oil every night and it made a HUGE difference in the health of my nails and cuticles, totally healing them and then making them stronger than ever. I’m kind of addicted to it now and have it on my nightstand as the last step before bed. I am also using Prima Skin Therapy right now and I love it. It’s super thick and hydrating and nourishing and not at all greasy or watery and it smells divine. Also love The Seaweed Bath Co’s Collagen Hand Cream for a super reasonable option and for travel.

My Weekly Skincare Add-Ons

ABOUT TWICE a week I like to give my skin a little ‘extra’ with a combo of both super active peels + exfoliators and a few very gentle, nourishing masks. I have a pretty good stash going, so reach out if you have questions about specific products, but these are the ones I grab most often.

+ GOOPGLOW Microderm Instant Glow Exfoliator: This is an awesome double whammy of both a physical and chemical exfoliant - I scrub it on gently in circles for the physical and then leave it on for a few minutes while I do my other stuff for the chemical. It’s gentle enough not to bother my sensitive-ish skin but the result is seriously instantaneous and awesome. HOT TIP: I buy the li’l 15 ml size and it lasts me a good while without getting dried up. I use this every few days.

+ Laurel Honey Berry Mask: This is a gorgeous, super clean mixture of locally-sourced honey and real fresh berries that brightens like nothing else I’ve tried. This unassuming-looking little mask is jammed with antioxidants, polyphenols and and vitamins and it leaves my skin super soft, smooth, SO bright and clear. My 15-year-old son also uses it when things get off and it makes a huge difference in his skin, too.

+ Activist Mānuka Honey Mask: This is a super simple and pure, but potent mask that has just one single liquid gold ingredient and I love it, especially when my skin is off balance. Real, pure mānuka honey is rare and this is wildcrafted from native bushes in NZ. It’s MGO certified [850+], indicating that it’s both authentic and has the potent, effective antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that you want. It feels super calming and nourishing and I love putting it on my lips, too.

+ Blissoma Lavish Loving Recovery Mask: This silky mask is heavenly, especially if I’ve had too much exposure to the elements. It’s incredibly calming, moisturizing and nourishing and feels amazing. It goes on thick and velvety, but doesn’t feel cloggy or harsh. I love it after skiing or when my skin is a bit off from weather or wear.

+ Osea Seaglow Resurfacing Scrub: I suppose this is technically a cleanser and not a real mask, but I use it a few times a week, especially when the weather is changing or it’s super dry out and it is ah-mazing. It’s another potent combo of physical exfoliants and flower acids and takes just 3 minutes to completely brighten my skin. It’s really awesome.

my beauty tool favorites

October 04, 2025 by all aflutter in Gifts For...

I’M ALL about the ‘right tool’ for the job, whether I’m cooking, camping, traveling or simply caring for my skin. To me, the right tool enhances the experience, but doesn’t require any extra fuss, because while I love caring for my body and skin, I do not love spending more time than necessary doing it. I want serious bang for the buck.

THE MOST effective beauty tool I own is hands-down my Omnilux Contour Face Mask. It was slightly painful to pull the trigger on it, but I’d had red light treatments at my aesthetician’s office in the past and had used [and loved] a Solawave Wand for months, so I knew super well the power and efficacy of red light treatment. Then when you parse it out and realize that the Omnilux basically costs the same as two facials, but lasts forever, it became a no-brainer for me. I’ve been using it a few times a week for a bit more than a year now and I can honestly report that it’s awesome. I see a significant improvement in my complexion when I use it consistently, a noticeable reduction in fine lines and an overall improvement in the texture and look of my skin. It only takes 10 minutes and sometimes I take the opportunity to chill for a few and listen to a podcast, or if I’m short on time I just wear it while I do my other post-shower stuff or fold the laundry. I highly recommend it if you’re looking for an effective way to care for your skin over the long term.

ALL OF the beauty tools listed below are awesome and can create a little spa moment at home [or while traveling] and they all make fantastic gifts, too. Everyone can use a little pampering and you might as well go straight for the ‘right tool’ to do it. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo

Beauty Tools

Featured

my clean beauty + self-care favorites

my day + night clean skincare routine

my beauty tool favorites

my clean makeup favorites

my travel beauty essentials

things i love: stasher bags

gifts for cozy nights in

my favorite clean beauty from beauty heroes

my clean makeup favorites

September 15, 2025 by all aflutter in Gifts For...

I WAS A VERY girlie girl growing up and probably imagined myself sailing through my adult life with perfectly coiffed hair and a perfectly lined lip. I still have that fantasy on occasion, but… my casual, active lifestyle just doesn’t really call for it and I’m usually in a pretty minimalist, ‘natural’ state. I mostly choose to focus that girlie energy and long-standing clean beauty obsession on my skin and skincare [and the 11 lip glosses I always have in my bag]. That said, I do use some pretty things when I want to get gussied up to go out or sometimes just because it’s fun to be a little extra. I try out a lot of makeup even though I don’t use it everyday. It’s just fun and I guess some of that girlie girl love of makeup is still thriving inside, even if it doesn’t always show on my lids and lashes. I love to stay up on the latest clean brands and trends, plus I learn a lot from the cutie teen girls in my life.

SO HERE are my current favorites for cheeks, lips and lashes. If you manage to sail through your life with perfectly coiffed hair and a perfectly lined lip, please do share how you do it, there’s still time for me to make my 12-year-old self extra proud. And to learn more about the skincare I love, check out My Clean Beauty Favorites for a BIG list. GIFT A LITTLE HAPPINESS. xo