It happened in a flash, but we're nearly through 2021. In our mission to help you shop smarter and save some cash, we gave you tons of recs for the products that can hack your life to make it a bit easier.
And now, we're taking a look at Skimm'rs favorite self-care products of the year. We’re talking things that’ll upgrade your beauty cabinet, wellness routines, sleep and relaxation time, and more. So sit back, focus on yourself, and unwind in three...two...one...
PS: We’re also revealing your most-loved books, clothes and accessories, home products, problem-solving items, things under $25, and overall bestsellers. Check ‘em out here.
A mineral SPF that’ll melt right into your skin…
Because sunscreen = a necessity all year long. This dual face-and-body option from La Roche-Posay has broad spectrum protection — so it’ll protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. It’s also oil-free, fragrance-free, water resistant, and works for all skin types (sensitive skin included). Plus it’s fast absorbing, non-comedogenic, and dermatologist recommended. Don’t miss it. ($21.99+, Amazon)
Disposable night guards that’ll help prevent teeth grinding at night…
To alleviate the discomfort and sleep issues that come with clenching and grinding, we turned to mouth guards. And wow, do they really help. These come in a pack of 16 (or 10), and each can be worn up to three nights in a row before tossing. You won’t need to boil or cut them. Just rinse after opening and pop one in. Happy snoozing. ($12.78+/16 pack, Amazon)
A tool that’ll help you get salon-like hair from the comfort of your home...
And no, you don’t have to be an expert. Consider this a brush and hair dryer in one. It features three heat and speed settings, plus a cool option for styling. The oval design helps to smooth your locks and create volume. Hair for it. ($34.88+, Amazon)
A peppermint-oil stick for when you feel the beginning of a headache creeping up…
Stop it in its tracks. Roll the peppermint oil on the back of your neck and ears for relief. Because of the menthol, the oil can help relax muscles and decrease pain. So you can get back to your to-do list. ($8.49, Amazon)
An advanced hydrating serum that gets under your skin in the best way...
You know what they say: Boost your skin health, boost your mood. OK, maybe that’s not how the saying goes. But it totally should be. Especially when this Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum from PCA Skin exists. It works overtime to keep your skin smooth and thoroughly hydrated. Thanks to its nourishing formula with not one, not two, but three types of hyaluronic acid. Including their very own HA blend that’s designed to kickstart your skin’s natural production of this soothing, fine line-plumping substance. Use it in the morning or at night after your fave cleanser. Plump it up. ($117, PCA Skin)*
A guided journal that can help you leave 2021 in the past…
And some other things that may be holding you back. It’s packed with funny, sometimes profane prompts that’ll help you get outside your head. Because harping on grudges or moments of regret can only weigh you down. It’s almost 2022, and we don’t have time for that. ($8.99, Amazon)
A KN95 respirator mask that’s FDA-authorized…
To break it down, KN95 masks and N95 masks are very similar. The difference is where they are manufactured and certified (KN95s are made in China). At this time, the CDC does not recommend that the general public wear “surgical” N95 respirator face masks to protect themselves from respiratory diseases like coronavirus. Those are supplies that should be reserved for health care workers and other medical first responders. The Powecom KN95 is a great second option that filters out 95% of airborne particles and can be worn on its own. It has ear band loops rather than headband straps (which are required by NIOSH). The mask is multi-layer and also comes in a black option. But make sure the fit is snug to your face. They can be worn multiple times, but toss once there’s visible dirt, or you feel there’s some breathing resistance. ($8.80/10 pack, Bona Fide Masks)
A five-in-one skincare formula that does it all…
Seriously. It’s a serum, moisturizer, sunscreen, and blue light/pollutant protector that provides sheer coverage. It can even out skin tone, while increasing hydration and boosting collagen. It has SPF 25 and is made without parabens, chemical sunscreens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances. So add this to your arsenal asap, because skincare = self-care. ($64, Iris & Romeo)
A sunscreen for the kiddos in your life…
Enter: Sun Bum 100% Mineral Facial Stick SPF 50. It’s easy to carry around and shouldn’t explode in a bag like some tubes of lotion. Plus it’s fragrance-free, fast-absorbing, and quick to roll on. So your kids can easily master the reapplication game. ($9.99, Amazon)
Arch support bands that may help those with flat feet…
Walking around with low arches or plantar fasciitis? Ouch. These copper-infused bands allow for full range of motion while staying odor-free. They can be worn under socks and provide compression to reduce muscle strain and redistribute pressure. Customers love how the bands seem to lift their arches, lessening pain immediately. ($17.95/2 pack, Amazon)
A vibrator that might make you want to cancel your evening plans...
Yes, even your weekend ones. The Arc by Dame has five different intensity levels and vibration patterns so you can pick and choose your fave. It’s waterproof and features their strongest motor (but you didn’t hear that from us). Time to send that ‘sorry, can’t tonight’ text. ($115, Dame)
A lube that won’t irritate or call for a ton of cleanup…
This one is water-based and formulated with natural ingredients. Aka it’s meant to mimic natural moisture, keeping your pH level balanced without the use of synthetics or fragrances. No more sticky hands or sheets. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic and gynecologist-approved. Because the last thing you want is sudden burning and itching when you’re just trying to get in the mood. ($14, Lola)
Bath bombs that’ll make you do a double take…
Self-care, but make it quirky. These noodle-like squiggles, packaged in a takeout box, dissolve in bath water to cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize. They also offer a healthy dose of aromatherapy — like turmeric and tea tree, or peppermint and poppy seed, based on which one you choose. Ultimate bath-time treat, coming right up. Wine optional. ($15, Uncommon Goods)
A scalp massager you can use while you’re in the shower…
We suggest using it while you shampoo your hair. It’ll help you scrub the dirt and oil from your locks, but don’t underestimate how good the silicone bristles will feel. It’s incredibly easy to keep clean since you can store it in your shower caddy. Lather it up and start massaging — it’ll end up making your shower time way more relaxing. ($7.98+, Amazon)
Sweat-blocking wipes for those looking to give their underarms a break...
The scoop: They're quick and painless to use. Before bed, make sure your armpits are clean before giving them a good wipe. Over time, you'll find yourself getting way less sweaty when out and about. Don't believe us? Try ’em out. ($19.99/10 pack, Amazon)
A habit tracking calendar so you can achieve your goals…
Maybe you wanna stop using your phone after 8 pm. Or drink less caffeine. Whatever your goal is, this calendar will help you stay aware of your daily, weekly, and monthly habits. It’s broken down into different categories like sleep, movement, finances, and organization. So you can stay on top of things and set yourself up for success. ($18, Free Period Press)
A jade roller and gua sha set for everyday facial massages…
IOHO (in our humble opinions), these tools are best used when they’re cold. But you can keep them out if you prefer ’em at room temp. Use the jade roller across your cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead, rolling outward and upward. The stimulation is said to decrease puffiness, help blood flow, and reduce sinus pressure. The gua sha tool can be used when you need a deeper massage and works in the same fashion as the jade roller. Hello, relaxation. ($14.99+, Amazon)
A lumbar pillow and seat cushion if your WFH setup could use an upgrade…
Okay, maybe you’re working at a table or desk. But chances are your chair doesn’t feel too comfortable (office chairs, we miss you). This lumbar pillow is designed to relieve back pressure, while the seat cushion can target hip pressure. Both will improve your sitting posture. And both are made from extra-dense memory foam. No more groaning when you sit down. ($64, Cushion Lab)
*This denotes a sponsored post.
If you buy anything from this article, theSkimm may get something in return. Oh, and if something’s out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) when we published. Thanks.
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