Arizona sun is different than anywhere else. I know, it sounds kind of dumb - and yes, I am aware it is all the same sun - but I swear it is just stronger here than anywhere I've been before.
I spent the first couple of days here with a constant headache. I can't seem to drink enough water, no matter how many reminders I set. ( I feel like I'm Sponge Bob stuck in Sandy's house with no water... y'all know what episode I'm talking about, so don't even begin to laugh at me. )
My skin and hair were hating me for moving here; I knew I had to start trying new products to revitalize my body.
Disclaimer: I am not "sponsored" or paid by any of these brands. Nor did I receive any product for free. I wish I did, my finances would really love that, but I paid fully for each one. So these are tested and true reviews!
Here are my top 5 essential Skin/hair Care products for surviving Harsh environments :
1. Agave Lip Mask by Bite Beauty. $26
This stuff is a game changer. I have gone through almost every brand and type of lip care, and absolutely NON compare. It is definitely the most expensive "chap stick" I have ever bought, but it has lasted me so long. Clark has also been using it since his lips get really chapped from being on the field in the sun all day. You only use a little bit each application, so after doing the math this is the less expensive buy, long-term. It's a thick gel (that's the closest consistency I can think of to describe it). Next time you're in Sephora go test it right when you walk in and walk around with it on for a while. You will be singing it's praises also.
2. Ultra Repair Cream (Intense Hydration) by First Aid Beauty. $30
I was pressured into buying this by a brand rep in Sephora. She completely fooled me into believing she was just another employee and that First Aid Beauty was her favorite brand. But wow am I glad she sold me. It is made for all skin types and keeps my skin moisturized all day long. Plus it can be used all over the body. It also is free of scents, which I love! Clark uses this on his beard and is a fan, so it's husband approved. They give you an ample amount in the jar so I don't freak if he uses too much either. (You know you hate sharing your fancy, expensive products with others...don't lie to yourself)
3. Rough & Bumpy Skin by Gold Bonds $10
If anyone else out there has those red, weird bumpy things on the back of their arms that kind of look like zits mixed with Rosacea: this product is for you. I've always had them and was told there wasn't much I could do. I have tried the expensive prescribed moisturizers from dermatologist and they were a waste. I found this recommended online with weekly exfoliation and it has taken them away. Since being out in Arizona those bumps have gotten worse so this has become a daily application to my body. And you can get it from anywhere. I purchased mine on Amazon.
4. Fresh Soy Face Cleanser. $38
I started using this before I came to Arizona, but it has kept my skin clear still even while experiencing a drastic change in environment. Its a soft gel cleanser and smells fresh (guess that explains the name lol). It doesn't have any added scents but you can tell they use cucumber in it. It has calmed the redness in my skin and I don't have many breakouts anymore. I've tried a lot of different skincare brands too, and my face always stops responding to them. But this is still going strong six months later. The 5.1 oz is enough for about three months; I wash every night and most mornings. I recommend trying the smaller travel size ($15) first, since it's pricier than your average Neutrogena. Everyone's skin is different but this is a must try if you can't get a hold of yours.
5. SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque $10
This is one of my newer purchases. Since being in Arizona, my hair consistently feels dry even when I let it soak in my conditioner. I bought this three weeks ago and so far it has been revitalizing my hair. I used to use a hair mask weekly, but stopped about a year ago because the one I loved was too expensive and I was broke. Well, I'm still not rolling in money- but this masque was $10 so I had to go for it. I put it on after I have cleaned my hair and brush it through with a wide-tooth comb. I let it sit for 5 ish minutes and then rinse COMPLETELY, otherwise my hair will get greasy. It keeps it soft and healthy.
Let me know your thoughts if you try/use any of these. If you have questions feel free to ask!