When it comes to skin care, I want to see the science -- ideally in the form of clinical trials. However, many brands perform their own studies, which can be less than reliable. So when I heard that BioEffect EGF Serum, $185, had more than half a dozen journal papers written about it -- penned by doctors who were not affiliated with the brand -- I was impressed. And the results -- brightening, wrinkle reduction, tightening -- are equally impressive. The serum contains a growth factor derived from barley grown in a geothermal greenhouse in Iceland (if that doesn't sound magical, I don't know what does), and it stimulates your cells to act like healthy, young skin cells. What's also remarkable is this tiny vial of serum acts as your entire nighttime regime -- no additional serums or creams required. Wash your face, dab on three or four drops, and you're good until morning. I've been using it for a week, and my skin has never looked better.
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Natural Soak
Somehow it seems like really great, beautifully packaged natural products are still hard to find. Indie Lee, however, ticks all the boxes. If you're looking for a gateway product, try the Indie Lee Grapefruit Citrus Bath Soak, $28, which is affordable, smells like a bushel of grapefruit and detoxifies skin and soothes tired muscles when added to a warm bath.
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Sugar Spray is the New Salt Spray
Though I love the texture I get from salt sprays, most leave my hair dry and crunchy. Paul Mitchell Neon Sugar Spray, $11.99, contains sugar instead of salt, which creates the same amazing texture and hydrates while it works. Plus, it smells vaguely of dessert -- all I ever want.
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Everlasting Eye Shimmer
Urban Decay Liquid Moondust, $22, might be even better than the original Moondust shadow. The applicator is a skinny brush so you can paint the color along your lash line or smudge it out for more drama. Add a few coats, and the effect is full-on 3D metallic. And of course they're long wearing, never smudge and come in the most gorgeous colors. (My personal favorite is Zodiac, a black-green.)
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A Natural Spray Deodorant
Spray deodorants are back, but until now you could only find big-name brands in spray form. And natural deodorant options are even more limited -- you're lucky if you don't have to scoop the stuff out of a jar. Jason Spray Deodorant, $10.99, is just as great a spray as the conventional kinds -- it's a light mist, it dries in seconds, and the scents are gorgeous. Sure, you're not going to have the serious wetness and odor fighting power of aluminum, but give this version 30 days to let your body adjust, and you'll be able to go au naturel -- with confidence.
Before you find yourself knee-deep in holiday shopping, take some time from yourself -- to shop for the best new beauty products launching this November, of course. These goodies range from soothing citrus bath soak (to relax before you start planning Turkey Day) to shimmery liquid glitter shadow (to ensure your holiday makeup game is on point) to invigorating face oil (to fight seasonal dryness). There's something to delight all of your senses and fulfill your every beauty need. Happy shopping.