Top Five (for the week of April 18th)

So, I know that it’s kind of late to do a Top 5 for this week (it’s Friday!!!), but after a long week of final papers, exams (who knew that there were exams in grad school), and the beginning of not just one, but TWO new jobs, I think I deserve the extra time. 

This week, all five items are beauty products that I honestly don’t know how I lived without. Enjoy!

1.Easter Appropriate Nail Colour

In preparation for this upcoming weekend, I went to my local beauty supply shop and picked up three very easter friendly nail colours (all OPI of course-brand loyalty ladies and gentlemen!) The three winners were “Lucky Lucky Lavender”, “Got a Date To-Knight” and “Shorts Story”. I’ll admit that they all look pretty similar in their bottles, but once on, they’re completely different!  Got a Date To-Knight is definitely the tamest of the three, perfect for, well, a date. Shorts Story is a super fun, bright colour that’s perfect for a night out on the town (in my case El-Toro, aka the TDot, aka T.O.). Lucky Lucky Lavender is the happy medium between the two other polishes-what I like to call an “all purpose polish” (great for school, the office, home). I’ve never been a bright polish person, but as of this week I am converted. (Available for $10 each at selected beauty supply stores).

2. Ole Henriksen Truth Serum Collagen Booster

Now here’s a game changer. My life, (well, face), hasn’t been the same since this little orange bottle first made its appearance on my bathroom counter.  Like many other grad students, I classify myself among the caffeine addicted and sleep deprived. (I see the barista at Starbucks almost as many times per week as I see some of my family members, and my Goodlife Fitness card hasn’t been swiped since March). My terrible lifestyle definitely takes its toll on my skin.  I picked up a bottle of this serum at the recommendation of one of the beauty experts at Sephora Square One, and my face has been thanking me for it ever since. Instantly my face looked brighter and my skin felt smoother. My face had that elusive “glow” to it. (Available for $60 at Sephora.ca).

3. Philosophy Purity Made Simple Facial Cleanser

I call this my miracle in a bottle. (Again, this is one of those instant gratification products.  My face has never looked so clear, felt so smooth etc, etc. An added bonus is that it works great as a make up remover. This cleanser comes in both small and large sizes and the best part is you only need a little bit. (Available for $13- $42 at Sephora.ca).

4.Philosophy The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash

A mini-peel in a bottle, this exfoliator lets you bring the spa home to you. It’s super gentle, yet effective, improving your overall complexion in one easy minute. Although a bit on the pricey side, it’s worth every penny! I swear I’m not a Philosophy brand rep, I just find that with their products, you really get what you pay for.     (Available for $26.25 -$38.85 at Sephora.ca).

5. Bliss High Intensity Hand Cream

I’ll be the first person to admit that when shopping, I always fall victim to the strategically placed products that are next to the cash register.  From the grocery store, to Walmart (yes, I shop at Walmart, deal with it), every time I line up I have to pick up (and buy) a chocolate bar, a pack of gum, or a magazine. For me, this habit borders on pathological.  So obviously, my shopping trips to Sephora are no different. My latest in-line-find was Bliss’ High Intensity Hand Cream.  While not the best hand cream I’ve ever had, this product fits comfortably in any purse and makes dry hands happy.  While I don’t recommend running out in a snow/rain/hail storm to buy this product, if you happen to spot it while waiting in line to cash at Sephora, definitely pick one up, you won’t be sorry. (Available for $9-$20 at Sephora.ca).