RI Beauty Insider Editor’s Choice: A Few of My Favorite Things

RI Beauty Insider Editor’s Choice: A Few of My Favorite Things

Oprah’s “Things We Think Are Just Great” feature in O Magazine is first thing I flip to every month.  And since I receive a lot of emails asking about basic beauty aids AND I am asked to sample lots of high end  products that sometimes disappoint, I’m giving you my private list of things that I think are just great.

My roster contains only the tried and true. I’m faithful because they deliver, are available, and don’t cost the moon (no $350 designer face creams). They have earned a place in my core group of “stuff” because I can’t live without them and have yet to find better replacements. So here are a few of my favorite things:

Eucerin Daily Protection Moisturizing Body Lotion

This fragrance free lotion is both rich and lightweight. I use it every day because it makes my skin silky and its SPF15 protects against UV exposure. The more you use it, the softer your skin becomes. No stickiness and quick to absorb means clothes slip on. CVS ($12.49)

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Ponds Cold Cream Cleanser

An oldie but goodie I’ve told you about before. Its tissue-off method of face cleansing is in line with new theories that skin does better without water. As long as you are not acne-prone, this creamy retro product conditions, hydrates, and removes makeup. Smells nice too. Rite Aid ($8.99)

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer

This is the stuff dreams are made of – it actually makes me look younger. It’s a sheer foundation with illuminators that fill in fine lines and reflect light. You will almost look like you move in candlelight. I don’t peer in mirrors unless I’ve got it on. Macy’s ($43.00)

Ped-Egg Ultimate Foot File

The greatest, safest foot smoothing tool I’ve used. Precision micro-files peel away roughness and keep feet sandal ready year round. Baby soft feet. From an egg. Walgreens ($9.99)

Clinique Even Better Concealer

This is the only concealer I’ve ever loved. No raccoon eyes and yet it’s not drying. Literally glides on and like magic, dark circles and discoloration disappear. Better? No, the best! Nordstrom ($19.50)

Boots No7 Protect and Perfect Hand Cream

I keep this in the office and put it on before I walk to my car in the sun at lunch. With SPF 15, it’s like wearing protective gloves. I like the insurance of knowing I’m doing the best I can to keep my hands young looking. Target ($14.69)

Farmaesthetics Eyebright Eye-Makeup Remover and Treatment Oil

Ok, this one was gifted to me... and it exceeded all expectations. Eyes are delicate and this herbal preparation runs circles around my old soapy brands. I KNOW it’s good for me because it makes my eyes feel comfortable after a long day at the computer. It removes even the blackest mascara. Your pillow case will thank you too. True love in a petite blue bottle. Farmaesthetics ($25.00)

L'Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray

Out of circulation for years, this hairspray keeps my locks in place without the football helmet look. Its extra hold but a comb can still get through it. No crunch - only controlled movement. It’s the Holy Grail. Ulta ($12.99)

Donna Macdonald is a freelance writer who enjoys covering topics of interest to women, especially fragrance, style, beauty. She has also written marketing material for a women's book that hit the New York Times Bestseller list and netted her an up close and personal discussion on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Donna currently writes her own personal blog, alovelyinconsequence.blogspot.com where she also writes about issues close to a woman's heart. Donna believes that when a woman finds beauty in the world, she will find beauty in herself.