I've Been Trying Beauty Products for 5 Years—These 21 Are Truly Life-Changing

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(Image credit: @bianca__lambert)

I tried everything when I first started writing in the beauty world. And when I say everything, I mean that it got to the point where my skin was constantly angry and red, and my hair was always dehydrated. When I started to chat with experts to round out my stories, I quickly realized my routines were too robust. Why was I making everything so complicated? 

Fast-forward nearly five years later. My beauty routines are much more curated and straightforward. More is not better. In fact, in most cases, it can make matters much worse, especially when we're talking skin and hair. These days, I only use products that make a difference or, at the very least, don't send my skin into a two-week-long tailspin of tiny bumps and inflammation.

My top beauty rule: no swapping out products for the next best thing unless there is something extraordinary about a new launch. From haircare to makeup (there's even a nail polish in the mix), this list has my top 21 favorites that are beloved within my ride-or-die beauty and self-care rotation. Keep reading for more!

Skincare

Makeup

Hair

Bath Body

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Freelance Contributor