A new year means a new crop of beauty products and tools hits the shelves of your favorite retailers. Kick off 2016 looking your best with our top picks, guaranteed to breathe new life into your beauty regimen.
ghd platinum styler, $249
Straightening-iron addicts know that heat can wreak havoc on hair. But now there’s a luxury styling tool that straightens or curls hair that’s been scientifically proven to reduce breakage by 50 percent. The ghd platinum styler also increases shine and helps maintain color two times longer than competing hair tools. Using patented technology, sensor-driven plates style your hair in just one stroke. Plus, special features include universal voltage and sleep mode (which automatically shuts off after 30 minutes), a dream come true for those who are always wondering whether they left their iron plugged in.
PiperWai Deodorant, $12
Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant, $18
At last! Two natural deodorants that actually work. Clinical deodorants contain harmful chemicals such as aluminum, which have been linked to health issues. The problem with most natural deodorants is that although they are healthier, they don’t keep you dry or odor-free. These actually do what they’re supposed to.
If you watch Shark Tank, you may have seen the creators of PiperWai strike a recent business deal on the show for their all-natural deodorant. PiperWai is activated by charcoal which keeps you from sweating or smelling and won’t discolor you clothing. Skin-conditioning ingredients like organic coconut oil, shea butter and pure vitamin E oil make this a good choice for people with sensitive skin. Even athletes swear that it works.
Ursa Major, a unisex natural skin care line, recently introduced their toxin-free deodorant which makes you smell fresh and actually keeps you dry too. The stick makes it easy to apply and the scent — a combination of grapefruit, rosemary, ginger, eucalyptus and lemon — smells delish.
Bio Ionic 10x Dryer, $329
Wouldn’t it be nice if it didn’t take so long to blow-dry your hair? The innovative, professional-quality Bio Ionic Dryer dries your hair in less than 10 minutes, adds shine and eliminates frizz. Are you sold yet? It’s also super lightweight, better for the environment, and has a 10-year motor warranty.
Dermaflash, $189
Dermaplaning has become a popular technique used during facials to exfoliate the top layer of skin and eliminate fine hair also known as peach fuzz. As a result, skin is left feeling soft and smooth. Dermaflash is a new, at-home version of dermaplaning. Use the handheld tool and glide it over your skin for a 5- to 10-minute session. If used once a week as part of your nighttime routine, you can expect softer skin, easier makeup application and a difference in skin tone and texture.
Skinfix, $9 to $24
Changes in temperature can do a number on your skin. We’re talking cracked hands, rough patches and itchy dryness. Skinfix is an extensive skincare line with healing products like eczema balm and body wash. The Ultra Rich Body Butter ($15) is particularly heavenly. Natural shea butter, coconut oil and sunflower oil help soothe and repair skin and the non-greasy, whipped texture goes on feeling as luxurious as the most expensive skin creams.
Conture, $249
The just-launched Conture skin device uses a pain-free vacuum system to improve skin radiance by 90 percent. Expect to see more luminous skin and diminished crow’s feet, dark spots and wrinkles. After using it twice daily for eight weeks, your skin should feel smoother, more even and firm.
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Limited Edition, $229
If you haven’t tried SK-II’s Essence yet, you don’t know what you’re missing! Made up of more than 90 percent Pitera (the skincare line’s flagship ingredient that bolsters the skin’s renewal process), this is truly magic potion for your skin. Apply the essence to your face and neck after washing your face and follow with your moisturizer. With regular use, enjoy more even skin tone and lasting hydration. Reviewers rave that it also clears blemishes, minimizes pores and lightens scars.
Beachwaver S1, $129
The sexy tousled hair favored by many of the hottest models and celebrities can be easily replicated at home with the Beachwaver S1. In fact, stylists used the Beachwaver to give voluminous waves to the models who recently strutted down the Victoria’s Secret catwalk. Wrap the ends of your hair in the iron, push a button and let it spin. Use the release button to let hair go and voila! Carefree, beachy waves.
Wilma Schumann Hydra-Gel Professional Treatment Masques, $39 for 4
The Wilma Schumann brand is relatively new to the U.S., but a staple in Europe. These hydrating, single-application masks have a lovely rose water scent and leave skin feeling plump and looking brighter. The masks come in four assorted formulations, Collagen, Deep Sea Soil, Aloe Vera and Red Wine, our favorite because it’s loaded with antioxidants and polyphenols, ingredients that aid in anti-aging.
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