It may not feel like winter just yet, but like a bear going into hibernation, I'm preparing myself for the colder months ahead. While that will eventually involve purchasing a small portable heater (pre-war radiators can't be trusted) and a lot of cozy wool sweaters, my biggest priority at the moment is restructuring my skin-care routine.
My skin does not fare well in the winter months. It gets dry and patchy, and I often struggle with eczema flare-ups causing my complexion to look uneven and textured. Bottom line: I need a routine packed with nourishing ingredients that instantly hydrate and help my skin retain its moisture. What ingredients exactly? Hyaluronic acid, coconut, and hemp-derived CBD. Luckily, I found products to build my routine with that include all three — and not one is over $20.
The Ingredient: Hyaluronic Acid
Just as I swap out my sundresses for cardigans, I'm looking to replace my usual gel-based cleanser for something that will cater to my seasonal needs. The e.l.f. Cosmetics Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm [1] ($10) not only removes makeup with ease, but also leaves skin feeling soft, clean, and hydrated.
The Ingredient: Hyaluronic Acid
Toners get a bad rap for being dehydrating and harsh on skin, but the e.l.f. Cosmetics Keep Your Balance Toner [2] ($8) may be my favorite exception to the rule. It's infused with hyaluronic acid and aloe, so my skin gets a burst of hydration and feels instantly refreshed every time I use it.
The Ingredient: Coconut
I deep condition my hair, so why shouldn't I deep condition my skin? The e.l.f. Cosmetics Coconut Water-Infused Moisturizing Sheet Mask [3] ($2) is the perfect treatment to use when I have some extra time and my skin is feeling as dry as a desert. This mask is soaked in coconut oil and water, as well as hyaluronic acid, so I can count on it reviving my lackluster complexion.
The Ingredient: Coconut
Since switching from working in an office to working from my bedroom, I had forgotten how helpful it is to have a refreshing facial mist by my side for those midday slumps. The e.l.f. Cosmetics Hydrating Coconut Mist [4] ($8) is enriched with coconut and vitamin E, both of which rejuvenate my skin when I need it most.
The Ingredient: Hemp-Derived CBD
Lips face the hardest struggle in the winter. Not only do they chap, but transform into a horribly dry canvas for my lipstick. Luckily, the e.l.f. Cosmetics 5MG Hemp-Derived CBD Lip Oil [5] ($13) is infused with skin-loving ingredients, like sunflower extract and hemp-derived CBD, to help make my lips feel softer and more moisturized even in the coldest conditions.
The Ingredient: Hemp-Derived CBD
When I talk about soft skin, I mean that I want it from head to toe. This is where the e.l.f. Cosmetics 50MG Hemp-Derived CBD Body Cream [6] ($18) comes in. It uses argan oil, shea butter, and hemp-derived CBD to help soothe my skin, so it can maintain moisture even if it's 10 degrees below outside.