By: Susan Gonzales Photo By: Lillian Reitz
As an on-the-go, 36-year-old mother of two, there is not much time for pampering and luxury. I am a woman with many hats, and they’re constantly changing. I thrive in controlling my world of chaos, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. If I am not working, I am usually chauffeuring one or both of my two daughters to any one of their million sports or activities. With so little time to hit up the spa for a facial or relaxing treatment, I bring the spa home to me. Some women swoon over shoes; I swoon over skincare and beauty products! During the late hour of the evening, when the house is quiet and the phone is silenced, I give myself the gift of luxurious self-care. I consider quality skincare an investment in oneself, and its rewards are unparalleled.
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm
Recommended by several Instagram influencers and heavy hitters, but it was Lindsey Silberman’s recommendation and review of the product that sold me. This cleansing balm is an all-in-one treatment, and the smell… oh, the smell will transport you to a beauty spa fit for a queen. It is moisturizing and fortified with collagen, which if you aren’t already incorporating, you need to do so ASAP. It will melt off the most long-wearing makeup and leave your skin perfectly cleansed and balanced. Its formula is ideal for nighttime cleaning, and won’t strip your skin of its moisture. One jar of this miracle cleanser will easily last 5-6 months – a little bit does the trick. Also, you can find it on sale, for 20 percent off, by subscribing to the Elemis email list and one of their many sales.
Available at Dermstore.com
NuFace Microcurrent Facial Toning Device
If I was forced to choose only one beauty tool to keep, it would be this gadget (and tweezers). Talk about a beauty tool that is a game changer. This device pumps microcurrents into the inner layers of skin and muscle. Combined with a use of a serum, you use this device in upward motions across your face, and the currents stimulate the muscles underneath. I use this in the mornings to rid myself of puffiness and droopy skin. It’s a facelift without the scalpel.
Available online at Skincare Butik
Donna Karan Cashmere Deodorant
Let’s just go ahead and acknowledge that deodorant isn’t a beauty product that will cause a joyous response. In fact, many don’t give much thought at all to their choice of deodorant, but living in South Texas, this is the one thing that must work! This has been my go-to deodorant for several years, and it’s never let me down. It’s long-lasting and has the softest clean scent that isn’t overpowering like other drug store brands. I’ve never found a deodorant that works better than this one.
Available online at Dillard’s
Beautybio GloPro
Like I said, I don’t have much time to enjoy a facial at a spa, but this tool is bringing the facial home to you. I use this every evening, after cleansing and toning, prior to my serums and lotions. What does it do? It’s brilliant: It creates micro needle injuries to the surface of your skin (don’t fret, you don’t even see them and it’s totally painless), allowing your products to be absorbed deeper into the skin. The micro injuries trick the skin into repair mode, flooding your cells with collagen and moisture. The result is more luminous and firmer skin. It’s worth every penny, by allowing you to maximize the benefits of your products.
Available online at Nordstrom
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Peel Pads
If you’re wanting to begin a skincare ritual, or if you’re like me and will try anything once, then do not pass these up: super convenient individual packets containing an exfoliating and brightening punch. Instantly removes dead skin cells, showcasing a brighter complexion with reduced pore size. They’re perfect for on-the-go and travel. An absolute must-have.
Available online at Sephora
Diptyque Rose Shower Foam and Hair Mist
Out of all five of our senses, our sense of smell is most strongly attached to our memories and emotions. I am a connoisseur of perfumes, and this brand is one of my favorites. Not all fragrances and perfumes are created equal, and this one stands out among the masses. The shower foam is the ultimate in luxury. It will blanket not only the bathroom, but your house in a veil of fresh roses (and not your grandma’s roses) and leave your skin feeling like velvet. It begins as a gel but immediately turns your loofah into a bundle of decadent suds and bubbles. The tiniest bit goes the longest way. The hair mist is the perfect refresher for your hair if it’s on “skip day” because let’s be honest; no one wants to wash their hair on the daily. Also great for after a gym or Pilates session as a refresher.
Available online at Nordstrom
Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum
Many will balk at the price of this product, but let me preface it by saying that you only use two to three drops, so it will last forever. Serums are essential! A powerhouse serum is how you will give your skin what it needs most. Vintner’s Daughter is a cult favorite among influencers and celebs, and for good reason. It’s a multi-correctional serum created from all-natural and consciously sourced botanicals and extracts. The smell is an abundance of florals and herbs. Used at night only, it provides your skin with nutrients and moisture to repair a multitude of issues your skin might be facing. Two to three drops at most, rubbed between your fingertips and then pressed into the skin. The next morning, your skin is dewy and balanced.
Available at goop.com
