We’ll admit it: One major perk of our job as editors is that we get to try out tons of products to let you know if they’re truly worth your hard-earned money. So in the nature of tossing gatekeeping to the curb, we’re sharing a few standout faves from the past month that we usually reserve for the group chat. Because they really are that good (and we’ll be super sad if they sell out and we can’t get them anymore). Without further ado…
A tinted balm that doesn't dry out our lips...
This lip balm is great for year-round wear. Since it's a tinted balm, it moisturizes and provides a bit of color at the same time. Some lipsticks end up drying out my lips, making the color congeal. But with this, I get that hydrating chapstick sensation. I keep it in my bag and apply throughout the day. I love Ilia beauty products in general, but this one is definitely one of my favorites. –Alexandra Napoli ($28, Ilia Beauty)
A weighted blanket we can't believe we slept on for so long...
I know weighted blankets have been around for a while, but better late than never, right? I just got this chunky knitted one from Quince, and I genuinely don't know why I waited so long. It weighs 15 pounds and is lightweight enough to keep you from overheating during the summer. If you keep your room below 68 degrees like me, you can layer it with your standard duvet or comforter for an extra level of coziness. –Beck Diaz ($149.90, Quince)
Snail mucin essence for dewy, hydrated skin…
I've been seeing this all over TikTok lately but want to state for the record that I've been using it for years. So I can confirm it just makes your skin...better. Use it as a last layer before moisturizer for a glowy (but not sweaty) look, and over time, I do think it heals imperfections. Believe the hype, people. –Jessica Kelly ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
A set of vintage bowls perfect for oatmeal...
I’m an oatmeal obsessive. The thought of eating oatmeal quite literally gets me out of bed in the morning. I’m also super particular about the bowls I use to make it in. (Don’t I sound fun?) Some bowls will get too hot on the outside, burning me as I take it out, but leaving the oatmeal runny. Others scorch the inside, and it comes out too dry. These CorningWare Grab It Bowls — which you have to get secondhand — are just right, with their easy-grab handle, perfect size, and general durability. Just call me Goldilocks. –Martha Upton (Prices vary, Etsy)
A cleanser that works like magic...
I tend to get random texture on my forehead and chin area, and nothing in my skincare arsenal was gentle enough not to irritate but strong enough to help with the issue. When I started using this cleanser from NYC esthetician Sofie Pavitt a month ago, I was shocked at how it started to solve all my problems. I don’t know what is the magic in this bottle, but it doesn’t strip my sensitive skin, yet somehow clears it from that pesky texture. It’s safe for all skin types, so if you’re looking for a new cleanser, run, don’t walk. –Margo Ghertner ($34, Sofie Pavitt Face)
A pair of cargos from our teenage years...
Abercrombie has become my go-to for elevated basics. These cargo pants are a comfier, cooler alternative to jeans; I like to dress mine up with strappy sandals and a sleek top for dinner. And the short inseam actually fits my five-foot-one (okay, five-foot-zero) frame. A major win. –Caroline Goldstein ($90, Abercrombie & Fitch)
Space bags to help you put a few things away...
I bought these space bags to — you guessed it — try to save some space in my apartment. The box comes with so many, you might not know what to do with them all, but I was able to hide away some blankets, winter clothes, and stuffed animals I don't need every day. Pro tip: It comes with a manual pump, but I used my vacuum, which made them super quick and easy to inflate. –Celia Skvaril ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
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