Winter Essentials

Winter Essentials by sandramcgrew featuring mac cosmetics

I don’t know about you, but these next few months wreak havoc not only on my skin but my hair, body and general mood. So this morning on KATV Saturday Daybreak, I shared a few things you can add to your winter essentials tool box that will help you not only survive the next couple of months but also make you look and feel more fabulous!

1.      BB Cream: (blemish balm) Think tinted moisturizer with a little Pow! BB creams are not only hydrating but this product also evens out skin tone. The American (vs. Asian) BB creams are generally a more lightweight foundation and provides a subtle glow without looking greasy or slick. It’s ALL the rage right now and the good news is there are so many options for various skin types. You can pick this cream up from your local drug or department store. Boscia BB Cream (sold at Sephora) contains sunscreen and other anti-aging components like antioxidants. It diminishes fines lines and minimizes pours while concealing imperfections. Super legit.  Tip: This is a layering product so you can put on one layer, and then add more layers where needed.

2.      For extremely dry skin and chapped lips:  Aquaphor is hands down my go-to product. I use it for everything including my cuticles; my lips, my dry heels (even in summer) and sometimes I even use it around my eyes for much needed moisture and relief from dryness. It’s very soothing. Now, this is very thick, heavy and greasy product so I only use this at night before bed and even then I usually just do a light coating.

3.      Body moisturizer: As someone with incredibly sensitive skin, I am a loyal user of Eucerin. I’ve been using this product for YEARS. Its fragrance free, dermatologist recommended and a beauty staple in my house. It’s also hydrating but not greasy and lasts all day.

4.      Hair: I seriously use this amazing smelling hair serum every.single.day. Moroccan oil. It’s a lightweight serum that you can be used for styling, adding shine and smoothing flyaways. One of the great things about this product is a little goes a long way. I’m going almost two years on one bottle! Granted, I do have short and thin hair – but even if you have long think hair a little dab is very effective.

5.      Lip protection: I love EOS lip balm. Not only for its adorable and fun packaging but it also smooth and long lasting hydrating balm. There are lots of fun flavors too. You can pick these up pretty much anywhere.

6.      Bronzer: As someone who looks like even more of a vampire this time of year, the bronzer is much needed so strangers don’t need to feel my pulse if I stand still for a second. There are a billion out there, but I am a fan of this MAC bronzer powder. The great thing about using bronzer is not only that it warms up your skin but it also allows you to add a little contour to your face. I just use a regular powder brush to apply a little around my hairline, jaw line and temples. I would recommend getting one that’s about two shades darker than your skin.

7.      Winter accessories: You gotta have fun winter accessories since your outfit of the day is generally covered up. I, again, just love the bright pops of color in winter accessories like gloves and scarves. These gloves are from Target.

8.      Wellness: When the temps plummet so does my desire to want to do anything besides lay in bed watching Harry Potter movies and eating everything in sight. Scoff all you want you know this is true: cute work-out gear gets us going! I am a huge fan of Gap’s – GapFit line. The line is not only affordable but functional. Heather from Gap – Little Rock told me the creator of this line is an avid runner and doesn’t put anything into production until she tries these pieces herself. I also love the bright colors offered right now like this neon coral! Shown on the segment: GapFit Motion Long SleeveTee, Reflective Nylon Jacket, GFast Leggings.

What are some of your winter survival products and items?

Happy Saturday! xo