Out of Office is a regular feature of brands we love—and we think you will too! Each of the brands we highlight must meet three criteria: 1) have a woman in charge; 2) create sustainably, responsibly, and thoughtfully; and 3) fit in with the lives we’re actually living. Read on to find out more about this week’s brand, the lady behind it all, and the advice she has for women everywhere.
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It happens all the time. You walk into a store and it just doesn’t seem like anything is your style, so you leave empty-handed. And if your style or size doesn’t happen to fit into the neat little boxes of women’s fashion (as deemed by the glossies), you likely struggle even more. That’s exactly what happened in 2010 when Emma Mcilroy, co-founder and CEO of Wildfang, was on the hunt for a bold graphic tee. When nothing in the women’s department was working, she headed to the men’s section, where she found a great shirt with a suggestive pic of Kate Moss on it. She was in love! And then she realized it wouldn’t fit her. “Ems, why don’t they make this shit for us?” her friend implored. And Emma said, “Jules, why don’t we start a clothing company that allows women to wear whatever the hell they want?” And her friend said, “Yeah, maybe,” which was enough. So they decided to make that shit for them (them meaning all women). And they called it Wildfang. Wildfang is German for “tomboy.” In an interview with Racked when Wildfang first started, Emma explained that for herself and co-founders Julia Parsley and Taralyn Thuot, tomboy “stands for a real fun-loving, cheeky, carefree, positive, bold girl that I think many of us aspire to be when we’re at our best,” and “sums up, loosely, that menswear-inspired vibe that we’re going after.” Wildfang wants to empower women by “smashing gender roles” through the clothing they sell. With the recent widespread resurgence of feminist sentiment the internet over, Wildfang has continued to ride the wave and do what they’ve always done: design cool shit for women. Wildfang makes their own clothing and also acts as a boutique for other badass brands. They’re inclusive in their sizing too, making sure that their stuff isn’t just for the slimmer figures of the world. Their presence in the space has given them a political voice as well. Emma said in a Forbes article:“I never intended Wildfang to be political—but then I also never intended it to be political to be a woman.”Wildfang doesn’t just make statement tees and yell into an echo chamber; they also make tangible change by donating to causes they feel passionate about. They made major headlines when they produced the “I Really Care, Don’t U?” jacket in response to Melania Trump’s jacket fiasco. Rather than just criticize Melania’s (ridiculous) choice to wear her “I Really Don’t Care, Do U?” jacket while visiting detained immigrant children, Wildfang created their own spin as a t-shirt with the goal to raise $100,000 for RAICES, a non-profit that provides immigrants and refugees with legal aid and services. (In the end, they raised $250K.) In addition, Wildfang has donated $100,000 to save the last abortion clinic in South Dakota and $75,000 to Planned Parenthood, ACLU, and Tegan and Sara Foundation, among others. Proceeds from their “Wild Feminist” collection also give back to a different charity each month. That’s some serious coin going to those incredibly important causes. Wildfang is about more than selling a style of clothing missing from the mainstream fashion market. They empower women with clothing to feel their best, most confident, most authentic self, and they use their pieces to make statements. As Emma said in one interview, “Fashion has been historically a very political way to express our views.” It’s clear that Wildfang takes that seriously.
HealthyWay’s Picks From Wildfang
Where to even begin? (Seriously, they have a ton of stuff and it’s all so frickin’ cool. So picking out my faves was a toughy.) I decided to limit myself to things just made by Wildfang, but they also sell pieces from brands like RVCA, Hips & Hair, and Bridge & Burn. I’m pretty reserved when it comes to fashion: I tend to dress in neutrals with clean lines and few patterns. And yet this shirt exists. The Ultimate WF Cat Button Up is truly incredible and I only lament that I didn’t find it sooner. And now I’m back to my regularly scheduled programming with this black on black Wild Feminist tee. I love how it’s subtle but still carries a strong message for those who choose to pay attention. That’s probably a metaphor for something. The Wild Feminist crop pants are too damn cool. I didn’t realize until I inspected closely that the grid print is actually made up of text that says “Wild Feminist” over and over. Brilliant! That’s a pattern I can get down with. You better believe that I’ll be outfitting my daughter in this kids tee. She’s all about girl power, so this is the perfect shirt for her to wear as she heads into first grade this fall. And finally, I had to include these Wild Feminist sparkle pens. (I’m a pen and planner addict.) When something as simple as a pen can share a message and it has sparkles, I am all over it.
Q+A With Emma Mcilroy
What’s your why behind the brand? What inspired you to start your company?
My best friend and I were shopping in the men’s department at a local clothing store—I was shopping for a bold, provocative graphic tee—which you never find in women’s section. Everything there is always floral and bohemian. My best friend wanted a cool blazer and found one she loved in the men’s department but it was way too big for her. That got us thinking—why are there certain styles you aren’t allowed to wear because of your gender? Why are women restricted from buying certain styles? So we decided to change that. We decided to start a company that allows women to express themselves however the hell they want.
Walk us through your typical work day.
There is no typical day! I’ll give you an example of how yesterday went—started at 8:30 a.m. with a four-hour offsite with my eCommerce team to do a SWOT analysis of our website and plan our web development roadmap for fall 2018. Immediately after that, I had an HR meeting with a staff member about promoting them into a new role. Next I did a quick interview for a radio station. I then met with our Amazon consultant to brainstorm ways to grow our Amazon business and set sales forecast for rest of 2018. My day in the office ended with a review of the creative direction for H1 2019—reviewing the key trends, colors, materials for the spring and summer seasons. I finally got an hour to do emails and grab food before I headed over to our Free Speech event at our store. I’m the host and the event is phenomenal. I got home around 10 p.m.
What’s up next for your company?
We’re actually getting ready to open an LA location this fall, are giving back TONS of money ($250K) to RAICES from our “I Really Care” collection in response to Melania Trump’s “I Really Don’t Care Jacket,” and getting ready to release some killer suits for fall. Said killer suit We are also working really hard on our product right now to improve the fit and the quality but also expand the sizing range so more women can access it. Our new suiting goes up to size 20 and we’re psyched about how awesome it looks. The long-term goal is to be her favorite brand and make a huge impact on our community.
If you had to pick just one of your pieces as your favorite, which would it be and why?
It would be the Wild Feminist tee. That shirt always makes me feel bolder and braver. I wear it when I need a little confidence boost.
Five-Minute Mentor Session
What’s your best advice for our readers?
Surround yourself with only the best people who 100 percent share your vision. If you can build great teams with shared vision you will ALWAYS win. You need a #yeahmaybe crew.
What’s your favorite way to practice self-care?
By turning off my phone. Emails and social media create stress and distraction. When my phone is off, my mind clears.
Balance or harmony?
Balance.
How do you define wellness?
Wellness applies to body, mind, and emotional health. All three have to work together. When one is damaged they all suffer. Wellness is connected to balance and regeneration for me. I try to make room for both.
What book do you think all women need to read?
I don’t know if there’s one book, but The Untethered Soul really helped me. It’s all about letting go. I also loved Peace Pilgrim. Both changed my life.
Pick your fuel of choice: Coffee, tea, or something else?
Black tea, ideally an Assam
What’s your ideal day off of work?
Going to the Oregon Coast with my wife. I love the sea so much.
What was your first job?
I had two: working in my dad’s shop and also being a bartender at local social club. Tegan and Sara wearing the tee they created with Wildfang
What has been your biggest obstacle in building your company and how did you overcome it?
People. It’s always about motivating and identifying a team. I never settle for anything less than the best for a role. And I never settle for someone who is not a cultural fit. Get the people right and you get everything else right.
How do you stay motivated?
Our mission and our customers keep me motivated. They are why we get up every day and work hard.
Love. Endless amounts of love. That is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the empowering woman we’re highlighting in this week’s Healthy Her Way feature. Whether it’s expressing her love for her family, the AMMA community, or the women all over the world she has yet to meet, it seems as though Emily Baldoni has a heart the size of California. Though you may have heard of Emily as a Swedish actress or the adored wife of Jane the Virgin star Justin Baldoni, she is not defined by her celebrity. Emily is also a mother, entrepreneur, and activist who’s actively leveraging the limelight (and working on life-changing projects) to make the world a better place for all. Have I mentioned that Emily is a badass mom? Emily welcomed her eldest youngin, Maiya, into the world after 35 hours of active labor during a drug-free home birth according to her talk about the spiritual power of the feminine qualities for BahaiTeaching.org. During her speech, Emily discusses how both men and women should embrace feminine qualities and celebrate just how strong women really are (tell ’em, sis). Justin also gave a similar presentation as a TED Talk—now that’s a power couple! One of Emily’s many impactful initiatives is her service as a board member for the Skid Row Carnival of Love—founded by Justin—which strives to shine a light on the homelessness in Los Angeles’ Skid Row area and to provide often overlooked individuals with the resources they need. The success of this annual event proves that people from various backgrounds can come together to make a respectful, positive, and even celebratory impact. Emily is also the co-founder of AMMA, a brand new product line “designed by mamas for mamas” whose mission to educate the world about breastfeeding while making it easier for mamas to breastfeed in public—all of which further demonstrates the Baldoni family’s altruistic nature. When this kind soul isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her family, which is apparent from scrolling through her Instagram feed for just 10 seconds. We can’t help but admire Emily’s raw transparency as she shares the joys of motherhood as well as its struggles. As she navigates entrepreneurship, service to (wo)mankind, and motherhood, Emily still takes a moment or two each day to care for herself through quiet time filled with meditation and prayer—reminding us that every mama on a mission needs to tend to the light within as well. While Emily’s life couldn’t get much busier, we can’t imagine a world where she wasn’t doing everything in her power to make a difference. We are so grateful to know this incredible human being and for the love she’s spreading in so many creative ways.
A Day in the Life
What does your daily routine look like?
You’re catching me at a time when our life is upside down due to months of traveling, work, and building a house, so we are just getting back to something even remotely similar to a routine. So this is what I hope life will look like soon… If my little boy doesn’t wake me up by sticking a finger up my nose, I’ll wake up from my alarm and go in to Maiya to wake her up and get her ready for daycare (one of her favorite places on earth). Our beloved, incredible, supernanny arrives to take care of Maxwell just before I leave to drop off Maiya. My husband might be home catching up on well-deserved sleep or been up since 5 a.m. to act/direct/produce/edit or just making the world a better place. #nobiggie #overachiever If he’s home when I get back from daycare, we try to catch up on all the million things that are always going on in our life and figure out what the day will look like. I feed Maxwell. Then I feed my heart and soul with a couple of prayers, and then I go out to our Endless Pool for a swim (coolest invention, check it out) or a workout in our garage. Now—moment of truth—this is NOT what I am currently doing while living in an Airbnb with our life packed in boxes, but let’s pray to the workout Gods that I can stay committed to daily movement/workout because once in our new house I have no excuse. 😊 After this I make breakfast and shower and then start my day, which includes work for AMMA—a new company I co-founded with a mission to celebrate and elevate the experience of motherhood, and soon launching an incredible breastfeeding wrap—and/or auditioning, answering emails, running errands—somehow there are ALWAYS errands to run!—and I always try to stay connected to old and new friends, meeting for coffee and either catching up or brainstorming about projects we want to do together. I pick up Maiya from daycare in the afternoon and after that it’s playtime with both kids, dinner, bath time and bedtime, and sometime after 8:30 or 9 p.m. the house is quiet again and hopefully Justin is home so we can have dinner together and catch up. And I always end my day with a few prayers and checking in with myself about what I handled great today and what I could’ve handled better. We are Bahá’ís, and our teachings speak of the importance of bringing yourself to account each day so we are always evolving to a better version of ourselves.
What are your favorite ways to practice self-care?
Just a moment to myself is self-care for me these days. And if that moment is meditation and prayer, even better. Nature also has a way of bringing me peace, a clearer perspective on things, and an overall recharge.
How do you stay inspired?
I stick around really inspiring people who make a change and lead with their heart. I also love to read!
Disclaimer: Just so you know, if you order an item through one of our posts, we may get a small share of the sale.
Loving Lately…
What are the best products you’ve discovered recently?
Currently in love with the True Botanicals skincare line…it’s so hard to find all-natural products that really work. Savory Moment is a new meal delivery company that we’ve fallen completely in love with. Super healthy, delicious, and made with love.
Whose Instagram is on your radar? #squadgoals #gramlove #hashtag
Angi Greene for incredible knowledge and inspiration for physical and mental well-being. Celeste Barber for the best kind of belly laughs. She’s a genius. Maya Vorderstrasse: the original letter board mom. Her posts about motherhood are insanely creative, fun and honest.
What’s your go-to healthy snack?
Cold sliced organic Fuji apples with almond butter or Greek yogurt with chopped apples or a handful of nuts
What are you reading, watching, or listening to?
My kids mainly. 😂 About to re-read Elizabeth Gilbert’s Big Magic, a fantastic book about creativity. Also just started The Conscious Parent by Shefali Tsabary.
Emily IRL
What superpower would you like to have?
To be able to speak all languages. Teleporting would be pretty awesome too since my family lives in Sweden and I could just keep hopping around the world showing off my other fancy superpower
What are you really great at (that might embarrass you to admit)?
I’m tall, white, and quite skinny, kind of a perfect build for the stiff Swedish polka. But my body and soul wants to move to African drums. I can’t even control it. My butt just starts moving and then the rest of my body follows. It’s probably not the most gorgeous sight and it’s an epic cultural mix-up but it feels pretty damn good!
What woman in history would you love to take to brunch?
Tahirih. She was a heroine, poet, and feminist martyr in the mid-1800s, and a very important figure in the history of the Bahá’í faith. Her prophetic dying words were: “You can kill me as soon as you like, but you cannot stop the emancipation of women.” Hearing her thoughts on how we should deal with our world today, even for just 10 minutes, would be worth everything.
Would you rather explore space or the ocean? Why?
Space. I’ve always been fascinated with space. My first words were “my moon,” and when I learned in school that it only takes a few days to go to the moon, I went home and started planning my trip. Imagine the perspective on life you’d have up there…
What piece of advice has impacted you the most?
My mom always told me to follow my heart. I think that’s something we hear a lot, but to actually put it in practice is a lot harder than we think. When I quiet my mind enough and get in tune with my heart, that’s when miracles happen. Want more refreshingly honest (and downright inspiring) posts on your Insta feed? Be sure to follow Emily to learn about what she’s up to and how you too can make a difference.
Looking for an impulse buy that isn’t absolutely useless? Amazon’s “Most Wished For” section contains a ton of strange suggestions, some of which are better than others; we can appreciate the appeal of a well-made travel pillow, but we’re less enthralled with this narwhal-shaped toothpick dispenser. We decided to dig through the “Most Wished For” lists to find some little hidden gems and oddities. For the most part, we found what you’d expect—plenty of decent cosmetics and neat gadgets—but there were a few surprises.
1. Fight fungus and bacteria with pure tea tree essential oil.
Granted, if you’ve got especially bad fungus—you know who you are—you should see a doctor. If you’re suffering from a minor case of athlete’s foot, though, tea tree oil’s natural antifungal properties could help you get some relief. Amazon Australian Pure Tea Tree Essential Oil is therapeutic-grade oil bottled in the USA and contains no added preservatives of any kind. Be careful; this is the real stuff, so don’t apply it haphazardly. Australian Pure Tea Tree Essential Oil, $16.95 from Amazon
2. Get rid of excessive sebum with this mineral powder.
It’s called “No-Sebum,” but really, we wouldn’t want to live in a world without any sebum. Amazon Sebum, by the way, is the oil that your skin creates to trap bacteria and other contaminants. It’s useful stuff, but too much sebum can cause breakouts and oily-looking skin. This mineral powder helps you keep oil under control. It doesn’t dry out your skin, but the natural mineral and mint extracts soak up excess oil and sweat to leave you with a clearer-looking complexion. No-Sebum Mineral Powder, $8.83 from Amazon
3. Add some new (temporary) colors to your life with this easy-to-use hair chalk.
This “chalk” has more of a lipstick-like texture, but “hair lipstick” doesn’t sound nearly as cool. Apply, then set with a flat iron. The color stays in your hair for up to three days, and the twist-to-open tubes won’t leave you with messy hands. Amazon It’s a great choice for birthdays, Halloween parties, and any other environment that could use a little more color. Philonext Temporary Hair Chalk, $10.98 from Amazon
4. Separate your toes with these…toe separators.
Sometimes, the name says it all. These toe separators spread your toes apart, which can be therapeutic, apparently. An included “yoga massage ball” lets you gently massage your foot, improving circulation and relieving minor aches and pains. Amazon This product’s Amazon description obviously had some translation issues, but according to the manufacturer, the toe spacer “will make you feel younger than ever.” We highly doubt that, but it will space your toes out in slightly different directions. Why not give it a shot? Toe Separators and Yoga Massage Ball, $15.95 from Amazon
5. Start saving those leftovers with these silicone stretch lids.
If you find yourself going through rolls of plastic wrap and aluminum foil, this set is a lifesaver. It contains eight silicone stretch lids in a variety of sizes; use them to cover bowls, pots, pans, and any other round dish. Amazon They’re made from food-grade silicone (but don’t try to eat them), which is dishwasher safe, freezer safe, and free from BPA and phthalates. Silicone Stretch Lid Set, $13.99 from Amazon
6. Feel better about yourself with these (slightly sarcastic) affirmation cards.
Affirmation cards can be really helpful when you’re staring down a problem. Unfortunately, most sets are incredibly cheesy; reading something like, “remember, a widdle kitten lubs you” might work for some people, but it’s not for everyone. Amazon These affirmation cards are funny, realistic, and actually really helpful. They’ll give you no-nonsense exercises for working on your mental health. Affirmators!, $12.71 from Amazon
7. Serve your favorite snacks with this adorable tidbit bowl.
Have you ever wanted to eat olives out of an elephant? Amazon Well, someone did, apparently, because this thing exists. It’s a ceramic elephant that holds about one cup of your favorite snack. The hole in the trunk leads to a separate compartment that you can empty out via a bung on the bottom. Therefore, you could fill the elephant with olives, for instance, and put the pits into the trunk. It’s a cute conversation piece, ideal for entertaining, and while it’s not the type of thing that you’ll use every day, it’s a nice little trinket to have around. Makes a great gift. Ceramic Elephant Tidbit Bowl, $18.90 from Amazon
8. Make your own fresh quesadillas at home.
At some point, George Foreman looked at his manager and said, “I’ve got ideas for at least four distinct kitchen appliances.” Amazon Okay, maybe that never happened, but even if Big George didn’t actually invent the George Foreman Quesadilla Maker, it’s still a knockout. Featuring the same fat-reducing technology as the George Foreman Grill, it presses and evenly cooks your quesadillas, giving you restaurant-quality results in minutes. Its six deep-dish pockets let you fill your quesadillas with your favorite veggies and proteins, and if you order it immediately, George Foreman might actually show up at your house, cook you dinner, and box four rounds with you. George Foreman Electric Quesadilla Maker, $23.99 from Amazon
9. Enjoy some deep relaxation with these aromatherapy oils.
These six fragrance oils arrive in a stylish gift box, and they’re everything you need for a deep dive into the world of aromatherapy. Scents include forest pine, ocean breeze, rain, fresh cut grass, sandalwood, and bamboo. Amazon As they’re highly concentrated, exercise caution—a few drops go a long way. These work well as soap bases, if you’re into making your own soaps. P&J Trading Set of 6 Premium Grade Fragrance Oils, $16.95 from Amazon
10. Write on pretty much anything.
Don’t tell your local graffiti artist about these metallic markers (or do tell them, depending on your artistic philosophy). They write on pretty much anything, including wood, metal, glass, plastic, ceramics, and (duh) paper. Amazon The bold colors make an immediate impression, and they dry within seconds. Oh, and the water-based ink is easily erasable—on second thought, you can definitely tell that graffiti artist to pick up a few of these. Arteza Metallic Glass Markers, $8.99 from Amazon
11. Achieve your goals with this best-selling self-help book.
We’re going to be brutally honest: This book is called The Untethered Soul, and its cover shows a horse running on a beach. Sure, you can’t judge a book by its cover, but most readers will know immediately whether this is for them. Amazon With that said, The Untethered Soul has thousands of five-star reviews from Amazon users, and its psychology-based approach to personal wellness seems to be extraordinarily effective for some people. If you’re looking for a book that will inspire you to live your best life, this might be it. The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself, $11.36 from Amazon
12. Wake up feeling great with this light therapy alarm clock.
This futuristic-looking clock simulates the rising sun, so you’ll wake up feeling naturally refreshed. In fact, the Philips Wake-Up light is clinically proven to help you feel more energized from the start of your day. Amazon A built-in speaker plays your choice of five calming wake-up sounds (or, if you’re having trouble getting out of bed, you can set it to turn on your favorite FM radio station). It also features a tap-to-snooze feature and a built-in backup that can withstand an eight-hour power outage. Philips Wake-Up Light Alarm Clock, $97.95 from Amazon
13. Hold your phone or tablet exactly where you want it.
There are hundreds of smartphone holders on Amazon, but this one wins points for its simplicity. Its large base attaches easily to desks, bed frames, and tables, and the bendable arm lets you position your screen for optimal comfort. There’s even built-in access ports that let you charge your devices while you use them. Amazon The only thing we can’t figure out: Why do people add this to their Wish Lists instead of just buying it? It only costs $12, and it seems like a slam dunk. Flexible Cell Phone and Tablet Stand, $11.99 from Amazon
14. Control any outlet with these WiFi smart plugs.
This smart plug two-pack gives you complete control over your electrical devices and appliances. They’re voice-control compatible, so you can use Amazon’s free Alexa app (or the Echo or Echo Dot) to toggle lights, TVs, and bacon fryers on and off at will. Amazon “Alexa, start my bacon,” you’ll say, and in minutes, you’ll hear the sizzling sound of frying pork. Okay, that might be a bit dangerous, but we’re sure that you’ll come up with some clever ways to use these handy little gadgets. WiFi Smart Plug, $15.99 from Amazon
15. Finally organize all of your stuff with this clever grid.
It’s billed as an “object retention system for gadget organization,” which might be a bit over the top; it’s basically just a fabric grid. That’d be like calling your pencil a “mechanically operated graphite distribution system.” Amazon Still, Grid-It works extremely well, and it’s got solid reviews from Amazon users. The elastic bands can hold pens, notepads, wallets, chargers, cords, and pretty much anything else that you might want to store. Great for keeping in your desk (otherwise known as your “chair-equipped work performance enhancement station”). Grid-It Organizer, $10.99 from Amazon
16. Vent your frustrations with this not-safe-for-work coloring book.
This adult coloring book (and we’d like to stress that—this is not meant for kids) contains a bunch of swear words. Grab your colored pencils, sit down, and have yourself a nice therapeutic coloring session while thinking about that guy who cut you off on the way to work. Amazon The illustrator didn’t phone this one in; each page features complex images with plenty of detail, and you’ll likely spend hours on each piece. Makes a great gift for anyone with a slightly subversive sense of humor. Swear Word Coloring Book, $4.99 from Amazon
17. Light any aspiring astronomer’s room with this 3D-printed moon lamp.
This 5.1-inch lamp cycles between three colors, providing a soft nightlight for kids (or adults, as the case may be). Amazon This well-made light has an adjustable brightness setting and comes with supplies for hanging it from a ceiling. It’s almost like the real moon, except much, much, smaller, and made from 3D-printed materials instead of cheese. 3D Moon Lamp, $24.99 from Amazon
18. Tackle your wrinkly clothes with this travel-sized iron.
This miniature iron is about the size of your hand (assuming you’ve got relatively normal-sized hands), but it’s powerful enough to handle your toughest wrinkles. It features a one-touch steam control, three temperature settings, and a free travel bag. There’s even a measuring cup to fill the 1.4-ounce water tank. Amazon The dual-voltage selector lets you choose appropriate voltage when traveling internationally. Really, this is a perfect compact iron—if you travel frequently, it’s well worth the $20 investment. Mini Travel Steam Iron, $20.39 from Amazon
19. Enjoy a nice foot massage, courtesy of science.
We could all use a nice foot massage every now and then. This affordable foot massager does the job adequately with 18 kneading nodes and six massage heads that relieve pain, improve circulation, and restore tired muscles. Amazon
It’s fairly lightweight, and with its low profile, it’s easy to tuck under your couch or chair. The heating function feels amazing on cold winter nights, and a 20-minute auto-shut off ensures that if you fall asleep while using it, you won’t wake up with over-massaged feet. Shiatsu Foot Massager, $59.99 from Amazon
20. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize.
This anti-aging cream contains a variety of high-quality natural ingredients including vitamin E, green tea, shea butter, and jojoba oil, which removes oily buildup while moisturizing and rejuvenating your skin. Designed for all skin types, it’s formulated to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, stretch marks, and sun damage. Amazon
It’s extremely well reviewed, and Amazon users claim that it provides quick results. It has a light fragrance, it’s non-greasy, and it doesn’t contain parabens. Retinol Cream Moisturizer, $19.99 from Amazon
21. Slice your salad like an absolute pro.
Ever look down at your salad and realize that you have the knife skills of a one-armed chimpanzee? The Salad Cutter is for you. Billed as “the last salad-cutting bowl you’ll ever need,” it makes it simple to chop peppers, tomatoes, and anything else you’d ever want to put into a big bowl of leafy greens, creating perfect cuts every time. Amazon
It makes cleanup much easier, and it even comes with a lifetime guarantee. Salad Slicing Bowl, $9.99 from Amazon
22. Stay lint-free when you’re on the go.
This travel-size lint roller twists to open and rids your clothes of fuzz, pet hair, dust, and other unsightly stuff. The retractable design ensures that you don’t waste a bunch of adhesive sheets, and you can tuck it into your purse or bag without creating a huge clump of random items. Amazon
It’s small enough to fit into your pocket, and several designs are available—granted, we doubt you’re really accessorizing with your lint roller, but it’s nice to have the option. The roller is reusable, and refill packs contain 30 easy-to-tear sheets. Retractable Lint Roller, $8.69 from Amazon
23. Take your love of mason jars to the next level.
Mason jars. Is there anything they can’t do? Amazon
This is a two-pack of soap dispenser lids designed to fit onto mason jars, and while the jars aren’t actually included, we’re sure that you’ve got a few sitting around from that time you thought you’d get into canning your own vegetables.
The kit comes with a cleaning brush and a few spare tubes. If necessary, you can cut the tubes to fit your jars, then enjoy washing your hands with soap from a mason jar just like Grandma used to do. Stainless Steel Mason Jar Soap Dispenser Lids, $12.98 from Amazon
24. Sew on the go like a pro.
You could spend hundreds of dollars on a state-of-the-art sewing machine, but that doesn’t make much sense if you only pull it out once per year to fix a $5 shirt. Instead, consider this portable unit, which can handle most simple jobs with ease. Amazon
It has a pedal switch and a push-button switch, and while it doesn’t offer the type of stitching options you’d get from a more expensive machine, it doesn’t have the enormous price tag, either. For about $30, you can hem to your heart’s content. Amado Portable Sewing Machine, $27.75 from Amazon
25. End your friendships with this ridiculously fun party game (for grown ups).
The Voting Game is pretty simple: Someone reveals a question from one of the cards, and players vote anonymously for the person who’s described by the question (for instance, “Who would win in a hot dog eating contest?”). The results are tallied and revealed, at which point players can guess who voted for them. Amazon
It makes a great icebreaker, although we’d advise exercising some care with questions like “Who pees in the pool every time?” or “Who clogs the toilet at their friend’s house and says nothing?” The Voting Game, $20.99 from Amazon
26. Look more like a turtle with this supportive travel pillow.
The Trtl Travel Pillow apparently gets its name from how it makes you look like a turtle. That’s a bold marketing decision. Amazon
Fortunately, the actual product is pretty great. It supports your neck, letting you rest comfortably on planes, in cars, and anywhere else where space is limited. The soft fleece doesn’t get too warm, and because the pillow weighs less than half a pound, it won’t add too much bulk to your travel bag. Trtl Travel Pillow, $29.99 from Amazon
27. Exfoliate your feet with this natural lava pumice stone.
Ready to get your pumice on? This exfoliating stone helps you remove calluses from your feet to get the soft, dainty extremities of your dreams. Amazon
Pumice stone is eco-friendly and has natural antibacterial properties, so it’s ideal for gentle exfoliation. This product has a suction hanging hook that creates a solid seal with most shower walls. It also comes with a cute cotton bag, so it makes a great gift for your favorite rough-soled person. Features a 100 percent money-back guarantee. Pumice Stone, $11.99 from Amazon
28. Apply your makeup on the go—and charge your phone at the same time—with this magnifying mirror.
Most compact mirrors are pretty underwhelming, but this one packs in plenty of premium functions at a great price. Our favorite feature: a 3000mAh polymer battery, capable of charging phones and other small electronics via the built-in USB port. Amazon
It has a normal mirror and 3X magnifying mirror, the latter of which is lit by a ring of LED lights. It comes with a color-matched carrying pouch, a micro-USB cable, and a user manual. Portable Light Up Travel Mirror, $20.99 from Amazon
29. Eliminate friction for pain-free feet and worry-free workouts.
This non-greasy balm creates an invisible barrier on your skin, limiting friction and stopping painful blisters from forming. It uses natural ingredients like beeswax to protect your feet, and it’s designed to be gentle on sensitive skin. Amazon
While this stuff isn’t magical, it’s effective for preventing irritation, provided that your shoes actually fit your feet in the first place. It’s a great pickup if you frequently wear heels or if you get blisters while jogging or biking. Solemates Anti Blister Balm, $12.99 from Amazon
30. Make sushi at home with this affordable kit.
Fold fish like a professional with Sushiquik. Dumb name aside, it’s a complete sushi set, perfect for making rolls of all sizes in minutes. Amazon
The kit includes a non-stick rice paddle, a training frame (which measures the perfect amount of rice for your rolls), and a roll cutter. The roll cutter’s end caps turn into soy sauce cups, and all components are dishwasher safe.
If you’ve ever wanted to experiment with your own sushi, but you were intimidated by the process, this is a great kit for you. It also makes an excellent gift. Be sure to pick up some nori sheets and sushi rice. Sushiquik Super Easy Sushi Making Kit, $24.95 from Amazon
31. Play a fast-paced word game that doesn’t actually involve bananas.
Bananagrams is an anagram game that’s like a frenzied version of Scrabble. Each player draws letter tiles from the bag—which is shaped like a banana, incidentally—and races to build anagrams in a crossword grid. The player who gets rid of their letters first shouts the word “peel,” at which point all players grab new tiles. Amazon
There’s no keeping score, and it’s addictive fun for players of all ages. It’s also a great way to build spelling and reading skills. Bananagrams, $10.49 from Amazon
32. Turn your patio into a romantically lit wonderland.
Why aren’t string lights more popular? Probably because they break easily and don’t provide much light—plus, they look out of place in a boardroom. Amazon
Well, this 300-LED curtain-string light set solves at least two of those problems. The UL-certified lights are safe, durable, and fairly bright, and an included control lets you choose between eight different twinkle settings. If the phrase “eight different twinkle settings” didn’t sell you on these, they’re probably not for you.
These make a great addition to a deck or patio, and they’re great accent lighting for weddings or other events. 300 LED Window Curtain, $15.99 from Amazon
33. Light the way during your late-night and early-morning runs.
If you walk or jog at night, you need to wear sufficient safety gear. These LED clip lights are a stylish way to make yourself visible to vehicles, and while they’re not a comprehensive solution—you should also have a decent reflective vest—they’re a good addition to your regular workout gear. Amazon
The lights clip onto the back of your shoes, creating a colorful glow without adding too much weight. The clips don’t require adhesives, and they’re functional for up to 100 hours. Plus, they make you look cool—that’s always a plus. LED Shoe Safety Clip Lights for Runners, $11.98 from Amazon
34. Get inspiration from these beautifully illustrated affirmation cards.
These are wholly unlike the cards from number six—and wholly unlike the cheesy ones we poked fun at. Written by Gabrielle Bernstein, author of the new-age self-help book The Universe Has Your Back, these 52 cards provide positive messages to help you tackle your challenges with complete confidence. Amazon
Bernstein’s philosophy is all about surrendering control and trusting in the will of the universe, but that doesn’t mean staying complacent; these cards promote mindfulness, confidence, and self-assertion in a way that resonates with readers. If you’re a fan of the book, the cards should help you put its teachings into practice. The Universe Has Your Back, $15.09 from Amazon
35. Finally squeeze your toothpaste the right way.
You’ve always wanted to be one of those civilized people who squeezes the toothpaste the right way, but for some reason, you’ve never been able to shake your squeeze-from-the-middle-of-the-tube habit. Fear not; science has your back. Amazon
This tube squeezer handles the arduous task for you. The gears push out every last bit of toothpaste, eventually saving you money. It’s also useful (in fact, arguably more useful) for squeezing paints, cosmetics, glues, and pretty much anything else that comes in a tube. Toothpaste Tube Squeezer, $7.99 from Amazon
36. Prepare for the worst with this book written by a former CIA officer.
Author Jason Hanson shares his experience as an agent of the CIA, but this isn’t a memoir; it’s a book filled with practical advice for handling dangerous situations. Hanson was a security specialist, and he provides simple, no-nonsense info about various safety and survival techniques, ensuring that you’re prepared to deal with carjackings, muggings, home invasions, and alien abductions (okay, we made the last one up). Amazon
He also offers tips for detecting lies, recognizing scams, and running basic counter surveillance. If you’re interested in real CIA tactics—or if you’re extremely paranoid—this is the book for you. Spy Secrets That Can Save Your Life, $7.68 from Amazon
37. Clean dirty makeup brushes in seconds with this electric cleaner.
This kit comes with everything you need to restore old makeup brushes to like-new condition. Attach your brush to the Wloomm, dunk it in some water, and activate the motor. It spins your brush, freeing up dirt, oil, and other contaminants. Remove from the water and spin again to air-dry. Amazon
This is basically an electric screwdriver for your makeup brushes, but for less than $15, it’s worth the money if you’ve got a sizable collection. The included adapters allow it to work with most standard-sized brushes. Electric Makeup Brush Cleaner, $13.99 from Amazon
38. Make your nails look like they’re covered in broken glass.
These foils let you create eye-catching nails in minutes. The mirror-effect surface appears to change color in different lights and angles for a unique look that’s perfect for parties and special events. Amazon
They come in large sheets, which you can cut and apply to your heart’s content. Apply a base coat and nail polish, then put small segments of the foil on your nail; apply a couple of top coats, and you’re ready to go. Reflective Mirror Nail Set, $6.99 from Amazon
39. Display your tea lights in these elegant Himalayan rock salt candle holders.
Designed for small tea lights, these candle holders are made from real Himalayan rock crystals. They’re great for meditation, although you don’t have to be especially spiritual to appreciate the naturally tranquil look of the orange rock salt. Amazon
The product description notes that “the ambiance is so soft, you can hear your dreams,” which is a selling point if we’ve ever seen one. Himalayan Natural Salt Rock Candle Holder, $12.99 from Amazon
40. Get your toothpicks from a narwhal.
Okay, we mocked this in the intro, but look at it. It’s a tiny porcelain narwhal that gives you toothpicks. If you love little knick-knacks, this is pretty much irresistible. Amazon
Granted, it’s completely impractical, and it only holds about 25 toothpicks, but it’s adorable enough to justify its paltry $13 asking price. Load in the toothpicks, shake it to dispense them, and you’ll be the envy of your next party. Narwhal Ceramic Toothpick Dispenser, $12.99 from Amazon
41. Get rid of dry air with this miniature cowboy hat humidifier.
Sure, it looks adorable, but it’s actually quite useful. Plug it into any USB slot, then drop the tube in a glass of purified water. The humidifier quickly goes to work, creating a relaxing space while limiting dry skin, congestion, and other issues caused by excessively dry air. You can even add a few drops of essential oil for an aromatherapy effect. Amazon
It’s great for offices, cars, and other small spaces where a larger humidifier isn’t practical but, by golly, a tiny cowboy hat humidifier is. KANGVO Cowboy Cap Mini Portable Air Humidifier, $10.99 from Amazon
42. Experience natural relaxation with this affordable sound machine.
If you’re tired of hearing honking horns and your neighbor’s favorite Limp Bizkit songs, you’ll love this little speaker. With six natural sounds to choose from—rain, brook, ocean, thunder, white noise, and summer night—it lets you drift off, or get productive, by drowning out the background noise. Amazon
Granted, if you’re outdoors, you’ve probably got plenty of nature to listen to without this sound machine, but it can be battery powered if you need it on the go. A relaxing nap in a hammock while listening to the ocean, perhaps? Big Red Rooster Sound Machine, $19.99 from Amazon
43. Get perfect hair in minutes with this easy-to-use straightening brush.
This straightening brush features a temperature auto-lock, which prevents you from clumsily hitting a button and turning your hair into charcoal. Amazon
For best results, brush slowly, using a pulling motion for smooth, frizz-free hair. A hair protectant (we’re looking at you, coconut oil) will protect against excessive heating and help you get a natural shine. AsaVea Hair Straightening Brush, $39.40 from Amazon
44. Start gluing everything in your house together.
Need a glue that will work on pretty much anything? Sugru Glue is a moldable silicone adhesive that can stick to most materials, creating a temperature-resistant bond that’s both strong and flexible. It’s also electrically insulating, so if you want to glue up all of your electrical sockets, have at it (note: Please don’t actually do this). Amazon
This is a great pickup for DIY-ers, as it’s easy to work with and remarkably versatile. It’s available in multiple colors and especially useful for repairing headphones, frayed phone chargers, and other electronics that you can’t bring yourself to throw out. Sugru Moldable Glue, $19.99 from Amazon
45. Finally get the robot assistant of your dreams.
It’s no wonder that the Echo Dot is one of the most wished-for items on Amazon; it’s one of the company’s coolest products, and the certified refurbished model is remarkably affordable. Amazon
Connect it to speakers via the built-in headphone jack or Bluetooth, then start talking to your friendly household robot. Alexa can control smart lights, play music, take notes, bring up your favorite audiobooks, send and receive messages, tell you the weather, read the news, and plot your eventual destruction in the upcoming robot apocalypse.
Really, what can’t it do? Certified Refurbished Echo Dot, $29.99 from Amazon
46. Get an entire bamboo makeup brush set for less than $10.
These handmade cosmetic brushes have premium synthetic fibers, which provide the soft touch you need for an effortless application. The manufacturer claims that the fibers “will not shed as long as you own the brush,” although we imagine there’s some sort of limit to that—if you manage to live to 200, we’re guessing that a few of the bristles might start to loosen. Amazon
The bamboo material provides attractive aesthetics and keeps these brushes light—and it’s an eco-friendly option. EmaxDesign Bamboo Makeup Brush Set, $9.99 from Amazon
47. Become more successful with this cult classic self-help book.
Normally, we’re not huge fans of self-help books; to paraphrase the great George Carlin, if you’re helping yourself, you don’t need help. Amazon
With that said, The Obstacle Is the Way is a modern-day classic for good reason. Based in stoic philosophy, it presents a simplified process for tackling your problems and turning minor missteps into character-building successes.
Famous fans of the book include Arnold Schwarzenegger and LL Cool J. If you don’t want to be more like Arnold Schwarzenegger and LL Cool J, we don’t want to know you. The Obstacle Is the Way: The Timeless Art of Turning Trials Into Triumph, $20.50 from Amazon
48. Turn your wallet into MacGyver.
We love multi-tools, but we always lose them. Plus, who wants to carry a big, bulky tool around on the off chance that they’ll need a can opener at some point in the future? Amazon
The Wallet Ninja, though, packs 18 useful tools into a tiny piece of heat-treated steel. You can literally tuck this thing in your wallet (hence the name), and you’ll find yourself reaching for it on a regular basis.
Need to open a box? Wallet Ninja. Need a screwdriver? Wallet Ninja. Cell phone stand? Ruler? Letter opener? You get the idea. Wallet Ninja Pocket Tool, $12.34 from Amazon
49. Laugh until you feel bad about yourself with this extremely offensive card game.
From the makers of the webcomic Cyanide & Happiness, Joking Hazard is an adult party game in which participants build their own comics. It contains 360 single-panel cards, which you can combine to create shock-humor masterpieces. Amazon
If it’s not already obvious, this is not a game for children. If you haven’t heard of Cyanide & Happiness, we’d suggest going to their site and reading through a few comics to make sure that you dig the creators’ warped sense of humor. That said, this is one of the most hilarious party games on Amazon, and it’s well worth the low price. Joking Hazard Game, $25.00 from Amazon
50. Track your adventures with this unique scratch-off world map.
The idea is simple but inspiring: When you’ve traveled somewhere, scratch it off the map. The scratched-off areas change color, leaving you with a clean visual representation of your worldliness. It includes a scratching tool, along with stickers for marking notable locations. Amazon
This makes a great gift, and it’s ideal for impressing guests. Do what we did—scratch off all of the countries but don’t actually go anywhere. Landmass Scratch Off World Map Poster, $28.79 from Amazon
51. Cut your meats on the state of New York.
This is a bamboo cutting board in the shape of New York. We’re not exactly sure who thought of this idea—although we’re going to go out on a limb and guess that it’s a proud Empire State resident—but it’s certainly a conversation starter. Amazon
Granted, it’s not great as a cutting board, since liquids will simply run off the side (probably somewhere near Rockaway Beach), but it’s great for serving appetizers or desserts. We’d recommend loading it up with some New York cheesecake. New York State Bamboo Cutting Board, $19.99 from Amazon
52. Jam out with these comfortable headphones.
Instead of spending hundreds of dollars on Beats, spend less than $20 for these comfortable, chic headphones. They’re collapsible, so they’re ideal for traveling, and a built-in microphone allows for hands-free calling. Amazon
A single-cord design prevents tangling, and according to reviewers, the sound quality is pretty decent. Granted, you’re not going to get audiophile-level bass response, but for the price, these are exceptional. Ailihen Lightweight Foldable Headphones, $18.98 from Amazon
53. Hair in the shower drain? Never again.
Okay, so the TubShroom’s packaging includes this phrase: “TubShroom is Guaranteed to Catch Every Single Hair, Every Single Time You Take a Shower.” Amazon
That sold us. If you agree that pulling globs of wet hair out of the drain is an unacceptably gross act, you might want to check this out. The TubShroom slips into your drain and catches stray hairs in a long, perforated tube.
You still have to clean it every so often, but rather than reaching down into the muck, you can just pull up the TubShroom and throw its contents away. How did we ever live without it? TubShroom Drain Protector, $12.99 from Amazon
54. Get rid of bad breath, once and for all.
At some point in the last few years, people started brushing their teeth with charcoal. We tried it and hated it—the briquettes were way too big to fit in our mouths. Amazon
But this active-charcoal toothpaste doesn’t taste like a bag of Kingsford; made with activated carbon charcoal and herbal extracts, it leaves your mouth feeling fresh and clean, and it effectively neutralizes the bacteria that cause bad breath. It tastes slightly bitter but with a hint of mint that won’t leave you feeling like you just frenched a Weber.
Seriously, this stuff works—just don’t try to cook with it. Twin Lotus Active Charcoal Toothpaste, $6.00 from Amazon
55. Enjoy a professional-level latte with this affordable milk frother.
This stainless-steel milk frother is remarkably easy to use, and if you’re a fan of lattes, cappuccinos, or other premium drinks with vaguely Italian names, frothing your own milk could save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a year. Amazon
It’s durable and sleek, and it even comes with a bonus mixing spoon. We’re frothing at the mouth just thinking about it. 1Easylife Stainless Steel Electric Milk Frother, $9.99 from Amazon
56. Practice your knife cuts with complete confidence.
Everybody wants to dice an onion in a matter of seconds, but unless you’re Gordon Ramsay, you probably don’t have the chops to make those types of cuts without losing a few fingers in the process. Amazon
These cut-resistant gloves should help you build your skills while avoiding injury. They’re ideal for cooking, but don’t stop there—they’re sufficiently protective for woodworking and carpentry. Just be sure to pick up a separate pair for those tasks; nobody likes finding splinters in their French onion soup. NoCry Cut Resistant Gloves, $10.99 from Amazon
57. Exfoliate your skin with this tea tree oil scrub.
With tea tree and five other essential oils, this scrub moisturizes your skin, leaving it feeling soft and smooth. It’s also ideal for treating minor nail fungus and athlete’s foot since the tea tree oil has natural antifungal properties. Amazon
The exfoliation effect comes from an infusion of Dead Sea salt, while added Epsom salt provides a luxurious, velvety touch. Majestic Pure Tea Tree Oil Body and Foot Scrub, $14.20 from Amazon
58. Stop slipping in the shower (and massage your feet in the process).
This tub mat features a massage-brush surface designed to improve circulation while gently massaging sore muscles. The product description notes that it’s “not suitable for tender feet,” so keep that in mind if you’ve got especially sensitive skin. Amazon
That said, this is a great dual-purpose mat that helps to make one of the most dangerous rooms in your home slightly less dangerous. Non Slip Massage Tub Mat, $12.89 from Amazon
59. Remove dirt and sweat with these convenient body wipes.
Ignore the fact that GoodWipes ripped off a Beyoncé line for their slogan (“GoodWipes in my bag, swag,” in case you’re wondering). They’re actually remarkably useful, as they let you easily remove dirt and oils in a matter of seconds when you don’t have access to a shower. Amazon
Good Wipes unfold to a sizeable 9.5 by 11.5 inches, and they’re completely biodegradable. Tea tree oil, peppermint, and ginseng leave behind a nice, fresh scent. GoodWipes Women’s Deodorizing Body Wipes, $9.99 from Amazon
60. If you’ve ever had an ingrown hair, you know why you need these tweezers.
We’re not sure there’s anything worse than an ingrown hair. Not only are they painful, they’re disgustingly painful. They’re also hard to treat on your own…unless you have a pair of these tweezers on hand. Amazon
This stainless-steel tool from TweezerGuru terminates in super-sharp points. It’s ideal for the unpleasant task of digging out ingrown hairs, but it’s also great for splinters, eyebrows, and other precision-pulling tasks. If you’re prone to ingrown hairs, these are a medicine-cabinet must-have. Tweezers for Ingrown Hair, $9.90 from Amazon
61. Relieve lumbar pain with this top-selling cushion.
Made with long-lasting foam, the Original McKenzie lumbar roll features a built-in strap that allows it to be easily fastened to office chairs, plane seats, and anywhere else where you need a little bit of extra support. The removable cover is made with 100 percent polyester. Amazon
Physical therapists frequently recommend this cushion for relieving back pain, and given the large number of 4- and 5-star reviews, we can see why. The Original McKenzie Lumbar Roll, $21.95 from Amazon
62. Ditch the lint roller once and for all.
We’ve got a problem with lint rollers: They run out. We usually use the last sheet right before a date, big meeting, or other high-stakes obligation—exactly when we need to look our best. Amazon
Enter the Conair Fabric Defuzzer. It shaves off lint, fuzz, and pilling in seconds, leaving your clothes looking fantastic. The large shaving head lets it work quickly, and if you don’t want to lug around AA batteries, there’s a rechargeable option available. Conair Fabric Defuzzer, $11.99 from Amazon
63. Organize your work environment with this gorgeous lap desk.
Sure, they call them “laptops,” but if you put your computer on your lap, you’re sacrificing productivity (and the tops of your legs). Amazon
This chic bamboo desk fits most laptops, and it has slots for your smartphone and tablet. You’ll instantly feel more organized, and because it’s made with bamboo, it’s a lightweight, eco-friendly option. Makes a fantastic gift for your pal with the laptop-burned thighs. Bamboo Lap Desk, $26.97 from Amazon
64. Bathe luxuriously with these bamboo boar-bristle brushes.
If you’re not using a bath brush, you’re not getting the most out of the bath. And we think we’ve found our favorite bath brush. Amazon
Bath Blossom makes their brushes out of natural bamboo, with a double-sided business end that’s perfect for hard-to-reach places. One side features stiff, short bristles for exfoliation and stimulating the skin; the other has longer, softer bristles to remove dirt, oils, and pollutants.
Long story short: This brush has everything you need for a better bath. Bath Blossom Bamboo Body Brush, $15.95 from Amazon
65. Ride confidently through the night with the ultimate bike light.
Riding a bicycle at night without lights is like forgetting your helmet; it’s downright unsafe. Some lights don’t pack the lumens it takes to ensure full visibility, though. This triple-mode bike light from Flipcase is not one of the slackers. Amazon
It pumps out a full 250 lumens in three attention-grabbing modes: solid, flashing quickly, and flashing slowly. You can also set it to a full-powered or a low-intensity light.
And this thing includes a 120-decibel horn. How’s that for staying safe? Flipcase Rechargeable Bicycle Light, $9.99 from Amazon
66. Take control of your sleep cycles with an alarm clock that imitates the sun.
Human beings evolved to follow the sun’s cycles; up with the dawn, to bed with sunset. While our schedules have been hijacked by electric lighting, we can still simulate these natural signals to go to sleep and wake up naturally refreshed—just like our ancestors did. Amazon
All it takes is the Philips Wake-Up Light. It’s an alarm clock that uses light before it resorts to that unholy beeping to get you to work on time. Half an hour before your chosen waking time, the large, round light on this clock begins to increase slowly in brightness. By the time you should be hopping up to brush your teeth, it’s shining with full yellow light.
At nighttime, the light goes in the opposite direction, fading like the setting sun. This may be an electric light, but it’s the next best thing to a natural sleep pattern. Philips Wake-Up Light, $97.95 from Amazon
67. Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your summer.
It doesn’t matter how perfect your back-porch setup is—mosquitoes can make the place uninhabitable. Nothing seems to keep these little bloodsuckers at bay, at least not for long. The only option is to bring out the heaviest artillery. Amazon
In the war against ’skeeters, this device from 711TEK is the finisher. It imitates the signals that mosquitos follow for their meals (which are usually us). Instead of finding a nice, rich artery to tap into, though, the bugs that follow this siren song end up sucked into this machine, where they are slowly dehydrated until they’re not a threat to anyone.
War is cruel, but remember: The mosquitoes started it. UV LED Insect Killer, $49.99 from Amazon
68. Get your whole family excited about veggies again (or at all).
It’s hard to get a kid to eat zucchini, to say nothing about a beet. Meanwhile, we parents are watching our waistlines with raw, vegan, and paleo diets—right? That’s why the whole family will benefit from this 5-blade vegetable spiralizer from Veggiespize. Amazon
Choose your slice, throw in a veggie, and crank the handle for delicious, versatile meals. Make veggie spaghetti. Shoot, make veggie linguini if you want. Spiralize everything from squash to tomatoes. Your kids won’t even know they’re eating healthy, and you won’t get bored with a veggie-based diet. Makes sense to us. Veggiespize 5 Blade Spiralizer, $19.97 from Amazon
69. Find out who you really are, thanks to cutting-edge DNA testing.
Home DNA tests sound like something out of science fiction, but they’re here. That’s due in large part to the work of 23andMe, a premier provider of DNA testing to determine ancestry. Amazon
All you have to do is spit into a sample tube. Gross, yes, but totally worth it. Mail your saliva to the lab, and a few weeks later you can access online ancestry reports on everything from geographic region to how Neanderthal DNA makes you who you are. Pretty cool. 23andMe DNA Test, $69.00 from Amazon
70. You’re only seven days away from healthy skin with this face mask pack.
Every now and then, you need an intensive treatment to keep your facial skin nourished, hydrated, and blemish-free. The Ariul Natural 7-Days Mask pack fits the bill perfectly. It comes with seven masks and 15 cleansing tissues. Together, they provide a weeklong treatment that can work wonders for your complexion. Amazon
Each day’s mask features a different blend of natural ingredients to treat your skin systematically. You start with the peeling, sebum-controlling power of green tea. In later days, bamboo water provides a blast of hydration, tea tree cleanses the pores, and avocado provides rich nutrients. Then, finish your week with skin-brightening lemon essence. Ariul Natural Green Tea Sheet Mask Pack, $15.19 from Amazon
71. Pack more clothes for your next vacation.
Packing for vacation is a complex science. How do you fit the most possible clothes into the smallest possible suitcase? It turns out there’s a trick to solving this riddle: compression pouches. Amazon
Gonex Packing Cubes are rectangular compression pouches designed to fit in suitcases, backpacks, and bags. They squish your clothes down to size with a special compression zipper. Think of it as shrink-wrapping without all the weird machinery.
This is a set of three Packing Cubes, sized large, medium, and small. That should be plenty to keep you going on your next trip. Gonex Packing Cubes, $23.99 from Amazon
72. Keep your feet soft and callus-free without spending a fortune at the spa.
Nail salons were onto something when they started offering callus-filing services; once you’ve gone callus-free, there’s no going back. But soft feet can cost a pretty penny when you’re heading to the spa every week. Amazon
Now, you can get salon-quality skin without regular trips to your pedicurist. Try this Electric Callus remover from Own Harmony: It’s essentially an automatic pumice stone that gently sloughs away rough tissues, leaving your feet smooth, healthy, and beautiful. Electric Callus Remover, $25.97 from Amazon
73. Take the scent of comfort with you wherever you go.
Aromatherapy isn’t stuck in the home anymore. AromaAllure offers a portable diffuser that’s small enough for your car or desk. It’s even water-free to eliminate the chance of spillage. Amazon
Just put a few drops of your favorite essential oils on the internal absorbent pads. You can even blend oils to create a personalized aromatherapy blend. The diffuser fits in a jacket pocket, and three AAA batteries provide power for on-the-go serenity. Plug it in with a provided USB cable for battery-free power.
Don’t just visit your peaceful space; bring it with you. AromaAllure Essential Oil Diffuser, $19.99 from Amazon
74. Here’s a towel that will keep you dry without hogging luggage space.
Traditional towels can be a bit bulky for travel. That’s just poor foresight; after all, what’s a vacation without an ocean or lake—or a swimming pool, at least? Amazon
Luckily, the folks at Youphoria have a solution. This Quick-Dry Travel Towel is made of high-tech, ultra-absorbent microfiber. It absorbs a surprising volume of moisture, but it doesn’t take forever to dry; wring it out, and you’re basically there.
Best, of all, this towel rolls up tight, taking up the smallest space possible in your backpack or suitcase. It’s ideal for travel, which is probably why they call it a “Travel Towel.” Youphoria Outdoors Quick Dry Travel Towel, $9.99-$29.99 from Amazon
75. The sun is no match for these thermal-backed blackout curtains.
Maybe you work the night shift. Maybe you’ve got a killer home theater and you like to enjoy it on a Saturday afternoon. Or maybe you are actually a vampire. Amazon
We don’t judge. You need these curtains. Their special blackout fabric blocks up to 80 percent of the light the sun blasts through your windows. Meanwhile, a thermal-treated backing keeps heat from getting through to your inner sanctum.
These things even help to reduce outside noise. The sun never stood a chance. Moderate Blackout Thermal Backed Curtains, $23.12 from Amazon
76. Throw that hair-frying blowdryer away and still make it to work on time.
Heat treatments aren’t always great for hair, but who cares when you’ve only got 10 minutes to dry off and get out the door in the morning? What we need is a magical towel, one that slurps moisture out of our hair in a fraction of the time it takes to air-dry. Amazon
Well, we found the thing we need. It’s a DuraComfort microfiber hair towel, and boy, is it ever thirsty. The quick-drying action of this thing even helps to reduce frizz and static, and it won’t fry anything in the process. Get it. Super Absorbent Anti-Frizz Microfiber Hair Towel, $13.99 from Amazon
77. Don’t just wash your face—pamper your skin.
Soap alone will never keep the delicate skin of your face as healthy as it could be. The trick is to treat your skin, not just clean it. And we can’t think of any better way to fully treat skin than with this four-in-one electric cleansing brush. Amazon
Pop on the gentle nylon brush head for a deep everyday cleanse. Switch it out with an exfoliating head to remove dry and dead skin cells. If you’re having a sensitive-skin day, try the silicone brush head, the softest of them all. And when calluses rear their ugly heads, a pumice stone attachment makes short work of them. Waterproof Facial Cleansing Brush, $18.99 from Amazon
78. Get your Zs when and where you need them.
It’s hardest to get to sleep when you need rest the most. Maybe you’re on an overnight flight, or maybe you just desperately need a mid-afternoon nap. One thing that’s not helping? All that light streaming in. Amazon
Jersey Slumber offers a simple but elegant solution with their silk sleep mask; we won’t be caught on a plane or a bus without it. This mask completely blocks out the light while feeling virtually nonexistent on your skin. An adjustable head strap makes this a true one-size-fits-all item. Jersey Slumber 100% Silk Sleep Mask, $8.89 from Amazon
Pregnancy comes with a lot of worrying, much of it unwarranted but natural and—dare I say?—unavoidable. But a few things are actually worth knowing about, if not actively worrying about. One of those things is preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that causes high blood pressure and protein in the urine, and it needs immediate attention. Why? Left untreated, it can lead to kidney and liver failure, stroke, seizures, and maternal death and/or stillbirth. It is therefore important to be aware of the symptoms so you can spring into action quickly if you sense that something is off.
What is preeclampsia?
“Honestly, most of us are still trying to figure this out!” says Kerry Price, MD, an OB-GYN at Orange Coast Women’s Medical Group in Orange County, California. “It is the number one thing … that [OB-GYNs] still need a definite cause for, and discovering its cause is one of the most researched topics in our field.” Here’s what doctors believe: Preeclampsia is a disorder of the vessels in the placenta that causes increased resistance. This increases pressure gradients, which causes maternal blood pressure to rise and puts greater demands on the vital organs. In short, the problem is in the placenta—which is why delivery is the cure.
[pullquote align=”center”]Never doubt that you know your body best and continue to seek out the best medical attention you can find.[/pullquote] High blood pressure caused by preeclampsia can come on slowly over time or very suddenly, which is why your OB checks your urine and blood pressure at every single visit and why it’s important for pregnant women to be aware of all the symptoms. That said: The condition can be treated and managed—how effectively is really a question of how early it is diagnosed and how close the mother is to delivery.
How common is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia affects between 3 and 10 percent of pregnancies. In fact, it’s one of the most common complications of pregnancy. Price says she’s seeing a rise in cases in the U.S. due to two main factors:
The average age of mothers is on the rise. In other words, more women are having babies at age 35 and older.
More women are overweight and obese—and these are both risk factors for preeclampsia.
Signs and Symptoms of Preeclampsia
You know how your urine is tested at every single doctor’s visit? Preeclampsia is one of the things she’s testing for. (We know it’s annoying, but so, so necessary!) At your 20-week appointment—and then at every other subsequent visit—your OB will likely go over the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia with you, but it’s good to keep them in mind for yourself, too. Here’s what to look out for:
A headache that is not responsive to rest, Tylenol, or fluids
Blurred vision
Epigastric and right upper quadrant abdominal pain
Swelling of the hands and face
General malaise
Fluid in the lungs
Signs of kidney trouble
A seizure, which is a very late-onset symptom that would actually mean a woman has moved from preeclampsia to eclampsia
Women who got pregnant via in vitro fertilization (IVF), donor insemination, or egg donation
One very important point: Women of color—especially African American women—are more likely to develop preeclampsia. According to a recent feature story in The New York Times Magazine, their symptoms are often ignored by medical professionals, causing a range of medical complications, including stillbirth. Never doubt that you know your body best and continue to seek out the best medical attention you can find.
Diagnosing Preeclampsia
In order to be diagnosed with preeclampsia, a woman needs to show signs of two things:
Elevated blood pressure: This means 140 or higher systolic, and 90 or higher diastolic, so 140/90 or higher. Ideal blood pressure is less than 120/80.
Proteinuria, or protein in the urine
You can have elevated blood pressure and not have preeclampsia, and you can spill protein in your urine and not have it. You need both to be diagnosed. Price explains that there are varying stages of preeclampsia: mild preeclampsia and preeclampsia with severe features. These are indicative of a more serious disease state. “The gold standard for any evaluation is a 24-hour urine protein collection, which can be done as an outpatient or inpatient depending on the severity of the patient’s condition,” Price explains. That said, high blood pressure at one appointment does not mean you have preeclampsia! This is why your doctor will probably test your blood pressure again four hours later and monitor you closely for at least 24 hours and for the remainder of the pregnancy.
Treating Preeclampsia
If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms above, you should contact your doctor’s office immediately and ask for an evaluation. If your OB’s office is closed, Price advises going to labor and delivery for an evaluation or speaking to your doctor’s on-call physician to see if an evaluation is warranted. “A patient should never wait hours or days to contact her physician about this,” Price says, “because if preeclampsia is truly there, time is of the essence.” Treating preeclampsia depends entirely on the severity of the symptoms and the gestational age of the fetus. Milder cases and those closer to term might not necessitate hospitalization or a super-early delivery. These are most often treated with frequent outpatient visits, blood pressure medication, and non-stress testing with amniotic fluid checks. Bed rest doesn’t help with preeclampsia.
[pullquote align=”center”]“A patient should never wait hours or days to contact her physician about this because if preeclampsia is truly there, time is of the essence.”
—Kerry Price, MD[/pullquote] More severe cases require IV antihypertensive medications, inpatient hospital admission, and more continuous monitoring of the baby. Your doctor is trying to prevent the condition from causing a stroke, fetal abruption, seizures, or severe bleeding. The baby will undergo more monitoring as well: non-stress tests and frequent ultrasounds. That said, if you are diagnosed with preeclampsia, you will not deliver your baby any later than 37 weeks—it’s simply not safe for you or the baby. More severe cases require preterm delivery to save both mom and baby from the worse outcomes, which can include brain damage or death. This is what makes preeclampsia so tricky: The only “cure” is delivering the baby. An OB’s goal is to keep the mother and baby safe for as long as possible—and not push it a moment longer.
Preventing Preeclampsia
There is no way to definitively prevent preeclampsia, but there are ways of improving your odds of staying healthy throughout your pregnancy. Though you should always consult your own physician, here are Price’s recommendations:
For Women at High Risk
As soon as you find out you’re pregnant, take a daily 81 mg dose of aspirin. This has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia.
For Women Planning to Get Pregnant (Who Have Risk Factors)
Work on getting to a healthy weight and have any chronic medical conditions (elevated blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, lupus, etc.) under control.
For Women Without Risk Factors
Make sure you exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet, and avoid excess weight gain during pregnancy. Excess weight gain is linked to gestational hypertension and gestational diabetes, both of which are risk factors for preeclampsia.
Can preeclampsia come on suddenly?
“Yes it can, which is very scary and why your OB is constantly on the lookout!” Price says.
Can preeclampsia occur before 20 weeks?
In short, no. The longer answer is a little more complex. “While there are case reports out there of an earlier diagnosis, there is almost always a very significant underlying medical condition, so it is not a true diagnosis of preeclampsia,” Price explains. If your blood pressure is high before 20 weeks, it probably indicates chronic hypertension (usually diagnosed if your blood pressure is significantly elevated in the first trimester) or another underlying medical condition
How does preeclampsia affect mom?
If the case is mild and managed well, preeclampsia is mostly just uncomfortable and annoying—there are the symptoms (headaches, etc.) and all the trips to the hospital for frequent checkups. If the case is severe, you can develop HELLP syndrome, which is dysfunction and/or a shutting down of the kidneys and liver. This can lead to uncontrolled bleeding, stroke, and death. Preeclampsia can also evolve into eclampsia, which involves seizures. These can cause brain damage because of lack of oxygen and aspiration pneumonia if vomit winds up in the lungs. Again, this is in very severe and unmonitored cases. The long and short of it is: If you suspect something is wrong, contact your doctor immediately.
Does preeclampsia affect my baby?
Yes. The baby is affected because preeclampsia is a placental issue. “The main fetal effects we see are growth restriction and low amniotic fluid volumes,” Price explains. “This can lead to significant developmental issues, especially if this happens earlier in gestation.” If preeclampsia develops at term and is diagnosed in a timely manner, the baby is usually unaffected and does very well—which is what makes accurate and timely diagnosis very important. “This is why we dip people’s urine at every visit!” Price says.
Is preeclampsia hereditary?
Nope. So just because your mom or grandmother had it doesn’t mean you will.
Hangry and wishing the right snack would just appear for your enjoyment (and the well-being of whatever co-workers, family members, or friends happen to be around when your blood sugar plummets)? Odds are there’s a vending machine, convenience store, or break room just around the corner where snacks are available. Unfortunately, if you’re adhering to a gluten-free or keto diet, those options probably aren’t something you’d be proud of nibbling on. Of course, depending on your nutritional needs, opting for whatever’s on the communal counter or in the Starbucks case could also pose a serious threat to your health. Luckily, regardless of why you’ve decided to eat gluten-free or keto-friendly, Amazon and Prime Pantry delivery mean these gluten-free and keto-friendly snacks are just one order and a few days away. Stash them at your desk, in the bottom of your purse, or in your little’s diaper bag to ensure you’ve got a snack that aligns with your personal food philosophy and dietary needs whenever hunger strikes.
Something Sweet
1. Treat yourself to something soft and chewy.
A perfectly wrapped caramel is like a little gift to yourself that can be enjoyed any time. You can’t go wrong with caramels when you’re in the mood for something sweet—unless you’re trying to limit your sugar intake, that is. Enter the keto caramel from Tom & Jenny’s. Amazon Instead of sugar, these caramels get their sweetness from plant-derived maltitol and genetically modified organism (GMO)–free xylitol—a dentist-approved sweetener that can reduce the acidity of your mouth and help prevent cavities and tooth decay. What’s more: They have no artificial colors, preservatives, flavors, or gluten. It all makes sense, given that Jenny of Tom & Jenny’s is a dentist who believes “good health is the root of happiness.” She and Tom “aspire to create the most mouth-watering bites for people on sugar or carb-restricted diets” and their caramels are just one of many snacks they make with love in the U.S.A. Get them from Amazon for $5.99.
2. Take a break with a brownie you can make in a cup.
Nothing helps beat the afternoon slump like a sweet treat…and a little baking project. No need to pull out the stand mixer (or even an apron) for these No Sugar Aloud Dark Belgian Chocolate and Organic Peanut Butter Cup Brownies. In fact, you won’t even have to do the dishes after enjoying your creation. Amazon According to the packaging, “All you need is water and love!” And considering that this gluten-free, keto brownie kit comes complete with microwavable muffin tins, you’re sure to win points at the office (or during after-school snack time) with these ooey-gooey, fiber-filled treats. They’re made with almond powder, Belgian cocoa, real butter, roasted peanuts, organic stevia, monk fruit extract, organic cocoa nibs, and sea salt, which’ll have you nodding in agreement with No Sugar Aloud chef Rodolfo Fernandes’ claim that life can be sweet without sugar. Get them from Amazon for $19.99.
3. Align with snack time.
No time to whip up a batch of brownies? Keep calm and get your sweet on with a Cherry Chakra Dosha Bar. This gluten-free, vegan, and organic option will have you feeling aligned with your dietary goals (and higher self) thanks to its organic seeds blend; unsweetened cherries, dates, plums, and apples; and a dash of sea salt. Amazon Dosha Bar partners with carefully selected organic farming partners to source its ingredients and crafts its snacks with ancient Ayurvedic medicine in mind. Not sure if your cherry chakra needs opening? Their product lineup also includes Blueberry Balance and Apple Cran Awakening Dosha Bars. Get them from Amazon for $35.99.
4. Enjoy a taste of the tropics.
This high-protein, vegan snack bar is the getaway you need—without getting away from your healthy eating aspirations (or your desk, commute, or power walk). Quntu Organic Life’s products are made with 100 percent organic quinoa sourced in Ecuador, and in addition to quinoa, these bars feature whole oats, pineapple, and coconut. Amazon While giving you 20 percent of your daily value of vitamin D (without any gluten, dairy, or artificial sweeteners), Quntu Quinoa Fruit Bars are a snack you can feel good about from a sustainability standpoint, too: Mikhuna Trade, Quntu’s parent company, actively invests in local growth and development and prioritizes improving the quality of life and income for its quinoa and amaranth farmers’ families. Get them from Amazon for $10.99.
5. Meet keto’s favorite cookie.
Fat snacks? To many, that sounds like an artery-clogging no-no, but for those who truly understand, appreciate, and adhere to a ketogenic diet, incorporating healthy fats on the regular is a big priority. Fat Snax gets it and offers a full lineup of fat-forward options, including the Lemony Lemon cookie, which comes in a satisfying two pack. Amazon Just what makes these nibbles keto-friendly? Coconut and almond flour, grass-fed butter, organic palm fruit oil, and—to nail that Lemony Lemon flavor—real lemon zest and lemon oil. Get them from Amazon for $22.98.
6. Chocolate, chocolate everywhere (but no sugar, gluten, or dairy to worry about).
This indulgent vegan option comes from Go Raw, one of my favorite snack makers. A resealable zipper bag means you can take these Choco Crunch Cookies with you wherever. Enjoy a satisfying serving of healthy fats, dietary fiber, and protein thanks to these cookies’ organic ingredients: unsulphered coconut, sprouted sesame seeds, dates, and cacao. Amazon Not a chocoholic? Reach for Go Raw cookies made with the same organic coconut, sprouted sesame seeds, and dates in Ginger Snap, Carrot Cake, Lemon Pie, or Spiced Chai instead. Get them from Amazon for $10.29.
Something Spicy
7. Buffalo everything lovers, rejoice.
Bunker Hill Cheese brings diehard buffalo wing fans an unexpected gluten-free, keto-friendly snack: Buffalo Crunchy Cheese Crisps. The family business, started by a Swiss master cheesemaker who moved his family to the States, has been operating since 1935 and is now under third-generation ownership. Today they’re serving up options that are intentionally high protein and low carb. Amazon The short (and spicy) ingredient list, which stops at cheddar cheese, natural herbs and spices, onion, red pepper, salt, and oregano, will have you digging in without reservation. As with buffalo wings, though, don’t forget the napkins. Get them from Amazon for $12.49.
8. If sriracha’s more your style…
The masses may still not agree on the appropriate pronunciation of this much-loved condiment, but regardless of how you say it, if you’re a sriracha person, you know nothing will keep you away from that garlicky kick. Amazon Enlightened’s gluten- and GMO-free Sriracha roasted broad bean crisps come in single-serve pouches that are perfect for snacking en route to wherever your day may take you. In addition to their low-carb deliciousness, they contain only 1 gram of sugar per serving while boasting 7 grams of protein and 20 percent of your daily dietary fiber (and garlic, chili powder, and paprika, of course). Get them from Amazon for $19.34.
9. This spicy snack comes straight from the pumpkin patch.
According to a University of Alaska resource, pumpkin seeds—also called pepitas—are excellent sources of minerals and protein that contain iron, zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids. All of that is to say, this is a snack worth getting behind, whether you’re vegan, g-free, or eating keto-friendly—but especially if you love spicy snacks. Amazon If the flame-covered pumpkin on the package didn’t give it away, here’s your heads up: These gourmet pumpkin seeds are hot. They’re seasoned with cayenne, black pepper, habanero, and crushed red pepper, plus garlic and unrefined sea salt, but nothing else—meaning you get 13 grams of healthy fats per serving. Get them from Amazon for $35.15.
10. Move over, Chester—there’s a flaming hot (GMO-free) Cheeto alternative in town.
If you’ve ever eaten Flamin’ Hot Cheetos until your fingertips have turned red and you’re panting in anguish (while still wanting just one more), we hear you. Unfortunately, Cheetos don’t offer the biggest bang for your nutritional buck, so why not try a gluten- and GMO-free pulse snack that brings the same crunch and heat? Amazon Enter Peatos from World Peas Brand. These nutritionally conscious crisps are made from a unique blend of pea and lentil flour (pulses), plus fava bean protein and pea fiber. In addition to offering twice the protein and three times the fiber of your old favorite, Fiery Hot Peatos are also vegan. As the Peatos site says, “No tigers were harmed in the making of our product. And if feelings don’t count, then no cheetahs were harmed either.” Get them from Amazon for $14.99.
Savory Snacks FTW
11. Whether you gravitate toward hummus or are more of a salsa snacker, everyone needs a trusty chip.
Beanitos Black Bean Skinny Dippers are the perfect high-protein, gluten-free, low-carb chips. They contain only five ingredients: whole black beans, long grain rice, pure sunflower oil, tapioca starch, and sea salt, which together work out to 16 percent of your daily fiber and 5 grams of fat per serving for your snacking delight. Amazon Black Bean Skinny Dippers are also GMO-free, vegan, and certified low glycemic, meaning they’ll help you feel full for longer and maintain healthy blood sugar levels regardless of whether you’re eating gluten-free, following a keto-friendly diet, or just after a more filling and well-balanced snack. Get them from Amazon for $9.59.
12. Like pickles? Here’s a protein-packed on-the-go snack for you.
Pickles come in all different varieties, but we don’t often think of them as a snack in and of themselves. BRAMI is out to change that with its high-protein lupini bean snacks that are…yes…adorable little pouches of pickled beans. Amazon Lupini beans, which BRAMI calls the Mediterranean version of edamame, contain 13.4 grams of plant protein per 100 calories, compared to chia seeds, which contain only 3.4 grams; chickpeas, which contain only 5.4; and even lentils and soybeans, which contain only 7.8 and 8.8 grams of protein, respectively. While pickled beans may sound a little odd, BRAMI’s lupini bean starter pack, which contains sea salt, garlic and herb, chili lime, and hot pepper bean pouches, has rave reviews on Amazon. In addition to all that protein, they’re vegan, keto-friendly, and contain zero sugar. What’s not to love? Get them from Amazon for $18.94.
13. Snack on a wild caught fillet.
Fillet is not necessarily the first thing that comes to mind when you’re rummaging around for a savory snack, but if you like salmon (or smoked maple anything) why not up your snack game with Epic Provisions’ Salmon Fillets? Amazon While it may not be a fillet a la Morton’s, eating fish once or twice a week may reduce the risk of stroke, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and other chronic conditions. These smoked maple strips boast 7 grams of protein and a short and sweet ingredient list that includes wild-caught salmon, real maple sugar, organic coconut oil, sea salt, onion and garlic powder, and dill. Get them from Amazon for $16.99.
14. This teriyaki-flavored snack is perfect for jerky-loving vegans.
Just because you’d rather not eat fish or meat jerky doesn’t mean teriyaki goodness is off limits. Cocoburg’s vegan coconut jerky is gluten-free and contains a significant serving of healthy fats from the young coconut meat and coconut aminos it’s made of. Amazon This meatless jerky is flavored with four simple ingredients: apple cider vinegar, ginger, coconut nectar, and garlic. It also boasts 4 grams of fiber, 3 grams of protein, and vitamins and minerals including calcium, magnesium, vitamin C, and iron, making it a well-rounded go-to for any snacker. Get them from Amazon for $6.94.
15. Relive your tween pizza roll days with this satisfying sprouted snack.
These zesty sprouted Flax Snax are some of my favorites because they actually taste like pizza. I’m also a huge fan of all things tomato, garlic, and seeds, so these crisps are a natural winner when a greasy slice just won’t do. Amazon The resealable bag means I can snack on these at my desk for days, enjoying the fact that they contain no sugar, flour, or oil and are great for tiding me over between afternoon-slump o’clock and dinnertime. They also pack well and make for a great travel snack that doesn’t crumble apart or require endless napkins for sticky fingers. Get them from Amazon for $32.67.
AM Grind
16. Grab a peanut butter alternative for your toast, bagel, or smoothie.
Performance Nut Butter is conveniently packaged for those mornings when a leisurely breakfast over coffee and your email inbox just isn’t in the cards. Toss a pouch in your bag and hit the road. Whenever you have a moment you can “1. Tear, 2. Eat, 3. Conquer.” Amazon Or, if you’d rather enjoy your nut butter in a slightly more civilized fashion, spread it over toast or apple slices or mix it into a smoothie. The macadamia nuts, coconut, cashews, and Himalayan sea salt (yep—that’s it) in each pack are blended with vegan and keto friendliness in mind, meaning you’ll get plenty of healthy fats to fuel your day. Get them from Amazon for $27.99.
17. Enjoy a gluten-free oatmeal alternative.
If you like rolled oats and blueberries as much as I do, you’re going to be excited about Papa Steven’s No Junk Raw Vegan Protein Bars. When you really need to eat on the go, your morning demands a healthy meal—no spoon required. Amazon These wild blueberry almond bars contain raw almonds as the number one ingredient, followed by raw hemp seeds, pea protein, organic gluten-free oats, dried wild blueberries, tapioca fiber, and organic natural flavor. What they don’t contain: added sugar. With 9 grams of fat and 20 percent of your daily vitamin C, Papa Steve’s protein bars are a great start to your day (and a 10 pack means you’ll have one on hand whenever you need to fly out the door). Get them from Amazon for $34.99.
18. Who says “no” to a refreshing snack time smoothie?
Smoothie pouches aren’t just for the littles anymore thanks to NOKA Organics, a company that’s out to “restore your confidence in real food and its ability to power you through life’s adventures.” NOKA has developed a 100 percent organic gluten-free fruit blend that’s got protein and flax and is suited to snackers of all ages. Amazon Our NOKA pick is their Blueberry/Beet organic smoothie, which contains organic banana, blueberry, apple, beet juice concentrate, flax, brown rice protein, lemon juice concentrate, maqui berry, and blueberry and wildberry flavors. This low-fat blend can be served room temperature or chilled and contains 10 percent of your daily iron—all from plant sources. Get them from Amazon for $14.99.
19. This keto option is a spread above the rest.
4th & Heart’s new-to-Amazon Chocolate Ghee Spread is the stuff breakfast dreams are made of, especially when you’re adhering to a ketogenic diet. This luscious condiment, which pairs well with protein pancakes, waffles, biscuits, and fruit, contains date syrup, chocolate, grass-fed vanilla bean ghee, cold-pressed coffee oil from Brazil, and energizing guarana seed powder. Amazon Chocti Chocolate Coffee Ghee Cacao Spread is great for snack time in part because it doesn’t require refrigeration. Leave it at your desk for a sweet morning treat any day of the week—no vying for a spot in the work fridge required. Get it from Amazon for $13.42.
20. Fuel your morning with an oldie but a (gluten-free) goodie.
We typically count oatmeal as a breakfast food, and there’s nothing wrong with that, but in truth, it can be enjoyed any time of day—from mid-morning to midnight snack—especially if you have a cup of it handy wherever hunger may find you. Amazon Bob’s Red Mill has created a gluten-free, single-serve variety pack that will allow you to enjoy oatmeal anywhere you have access to hot water and a spoon. (And thanks to the convenient paper cups, you don’t even have to have a bowl.) Why not throw a few of these in your desk drawer to ensure a hearty high-fiber snack is within reach whenever you need it? Get them from Amazon for $33.99.
21. Put the fun back in breakfast.
Waffles aren’t an easy on-the-go, gluten-free snack—no matter what flour you make them with. But wild berry stroopwafels can be, thanks to GU Energy Labs. The berry syrup that’s sandwiched between two chewy wafers to make these stroopwafels contains amino acids, electrolytes, and gluten-free carbs. Amazon Based on the reviews, this snack is adored by cyclists for its long-lasting complex and simple carbohydrate blend and caffeine boost and you can enjoy knowing it contains primarily organic ingredients including organic palm fruit oil, rice extract, real cane sugar, and eggs. Get them from Amazon for $24.00.
22. Indulge in a keto-friendly coffee cake alternative.
Who doesn’t enjoy dunking a soft pastry in a piping hot cup of coffee? Of course, if you’re prioritizing balanced nutrition, then pumpkin rolls, danishes, and the like may not get the green light, especially in the morning when you want to start your day off right. Amazon Allow us to introduce Nush Foods’ keto-compliant Banana Nut Cake. This high-fat, low-sugar treat includes 5 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein, plus calcium, iron, and potassium. Ingredients include organic flax, coconut oil, and bananas, plus walnuts, sea salt, and rosemary and monk fruit extracts—all of which adds up to a deliciously dunkable snack time slice. Get them from Amazon for $17.94.
Coffee or Tea Time
23. All that talk of breakfast food has us wanting a cup of coffee…
And of course for many coffee drinkers, that means needing a trusty creamer, which isn’t easy to find, especially for those adhering to a ketogenic diet. That said, Laird Superfood Coffee Creamer is formulated with keto followers in mind. Amazon Laird creamers are gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan and contain organic red palm oil, coconut milk powder, and aquamin—a source of bioavailable calcium sourced from red marine algae. The result is an additive-free creamer that’s suited for coffee, tea, and smoothies that doesn’t require refrigeration, meaning you can take it with you anywhere. Get it from Amazon for $24.54.
24. Caffeine-free or not a huge fan of coffee? You know we wouldn’t leave you hanging.
Try SUTRA Superfoods’ Gold single serving superfood mix, a golden milk chai latte and caffeine-free coffee substitute that contains coconut milk, turmeric, black pepper, ginger, vanilla bean, maca root powder, pink sea salt, cinnamon, Stevia, and cayenne pepper. Amazon These single-serve pick-me-ups are gluten-, dairy-, and refined sugar–free and are formulated to be keto-friendly. They’re also great year-round and on the go as they can be served hot or iced depending on where you are and what you’re craving. Get them from Amazon for $19.99.
25. Care for a sip of fat tea?
Okay, this is actually a single serve matcha brought to us by keto snack maker Fat Snax (meaning it’ll pair perfectly with those Lemony Lemon cookies). Each adorable paper packet contains 4 grams of fat from coconut and sustainable palm fruit oil, plus cassava starch, non-GMO erythritol and xylitol, ceremonial green tea matcha powder, and Stevia.
Amazon In addition to the keto-friendly fats, this brew contains caffeine to pep you up and offers a hint of sweetness that isn’t found in many health-conscious beverages. Matcha lovers can also rejoice in knowing that xylitol can help prevent cavities and keep your pearly whites shining bright. Get them from Amazon for $22.99.
26. Keto coffee, plus the convenience of K-Cups.
This variety pack of K-Cups from Nic’s Keto and Organic promises to shake snack time up a bit without posing any inconvenience. These toffee and banana–, melon-, and chocolate and cream–flavored coffees contain natural flavors but no sugar, meaning you’ll get a caffeine and flavor boost, but none of the crash associated with consuming too much sugar. Amazon These K-Cups are compatible with all Keurig K-Cup brewers, including 1.0 and 2.0 models. Get them from Amazon for $14.25.
27. A cupful of activated charcoal might be just what the afternoon ordered.
This chocolatey pick comes from SUTRA Superfoods, and like their Gold single serving superfood mix, Black is also caffeine-free and keto-friendly. This blend’s ingredients are often associated with detoxing and include (in addition to the activated charcoal) coconut milk, raw cacao, red reishi mushroom, vanilla bean, sea salt, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and debittered Stevia leaf extract. Amazon If you’re feeling truly dark and moody (or just want a caffeine-free coffee alternative), this might be the perfect beverage to complement your feels and, like the Gold mix, it can be served hot or iced. Get them from Amazon for $19.99.
28. Why commit to just one coffee drink when you could try four?
Bulletproof Coffee’s ready-to-drink cold brew sampler is perfect for those who haven’t had an opportunity to try all of their keto-friendly, certified clean coffees. Bulletproof’s beans pass tests that check for 27 toxins, then are cold brewed and blended with coconut extract and grass-fed butter. Amazon The sampler pack includes their original, mocha, vanilla, and collagen protein options, meaning you can pick your favorite. Another upside of the sampler pack: You don’t have to refrigerate these coffee drinks until after opening, meaning you can grab a few and go without worrying about them spoiling between point A and the next refrigerator. Get them from Amazon for $19.95.
29. Live your life like it’s golden (and leave the single-serve waste behind).
If you’re not so smitten with the waste generated by single-serve options, try Gaia’s golden milk turmeric supplement. Like many other gluten-free and keto-friendly options, this blend includes turmeric and date palm fruit, and it also incorporates cardamom seed, ashwagandha, vanilla bean, and black pepper. Amazon Two of the nicest things about this snack time treat? You can decide how much of the blend to mix in your drink, and the rest will stay sealed and secure in its recyclable glass jar and all of the ingredients are either organic or ecologically harvested. Also, like SUTRA Superfoods’ mixes, Gaia’s Golden Milk can be enjoyed hot or iced. Get it from Amazon for $12.99.
More Than a Snack
30. Sometimes you need a snack that eats like a meal.
Snack time can mean a piece of fruit or bag of crisps—or it can mean a gluten-free, belly-warming curry, thanks to Chef Soraya’s eat-a-bowls. Our pick: vegan Kathmandu Curry (aka dal bhat for those who are familiar with Nepali cuisine). Just add boiling water or pop the bowl-in-one in the microwave and a hearty snack will be yours in minutes. Amazon The Kathmandu Curry eat-a-bowl includes lentils, long grain brown rice, potatoes, carrots, peas, garlic, and plenty of herbs and spices. All those veggies mean it’s a low-fat option that boasts 24 grams of dietary fiber, 14 grams of protein, 50 percent of your daily iron, 35 percent of your vitamin C, and 15 percent of your vitamin A. As Chef Soraya Smith says, “Namaste.” Get them from Amazon for $23.94.
31. Here’s a g-free win for the cheddar lovers.
Less curry and more comfort food (unless of course curry is your comfort food—in which case dal bhat all day!): Annie’s gluten-free rice pasta and cheddar microwavable mac and cheese is an obvious choice. This classic Americana in a cup is free from artificial flavors, synthetic colors, preservatives, and gluten, thanks to noodles that are made with a combination of white and brown rice flours. Amazon Even better? Annie’s works with its trusted suppliers to source GMO-free ingredients only and according to their website, “Every yummy bite creates a positive impact.” The company works with FoodCorps to get healthy food to school children, funds grants to support and sustain 395 school gardens (and counting!) and awards scholarships to leaders who are actively developing sustainable farming practices. All that adds up to a truly feel-good (for you and beyond) cup of mac and cheese. Get them from Amazon for $22.72.
32. This bottled snack is made for the grab-and-go gourmand.
If you’ve graduated from your days of downing mac and cheese, perhaps a spot of gluten-free gazpacho is more your style. Meet Tio’s verde gazpacho, a beautifully packaged ready-to-drink soup made from whole-food ingredients. Amazon This culinary experience can be enjoyed bowl (and spoon) free and will fill your snack time with the refreshing flavors of tomato, cucumber, green pepper, avocado, leafy greens, extra virgin olive oil, red onion, mint, Himalayan pink salt, black pepper, cumin, garlic, and jalepeño for a sophisticated kick. Get them from Amazon for $46.53.
33. Support the World Wildlife Fund while snacking on sustainable seafood.
These lightly smoked sardine fillets from Wild Selections are a wonderful keto-friendly and gluten-free option that supports healthy snacking and a cause. With 13 grams of healthy fats from fish and a touch of canola oil, these fillets make for grown-up cracker or salad toppers that can be taken on the go. Amazon Wild Selections’ sardine is Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified sustainable, and for every purchase, the company donates 13 cents to the World Wildlife Fund. The money is used to help support certified fisheries and conserve marine life worldwide. Get them from Amazon for $25.18.
34. Serve yourself something Pho’nomenal.
If you’re a fan of pho, yes, you have your favorite Vietnamese place and know exactly the right way to dress your bowl of goodness. But for those days when dining out is out of the question, Pho’nomenal brings the heat with their non-GMO, MSG-, dairy-, and gluten-free quick noodles. Amazon Unlike ramen, Pho’nomenal bowls don’t contain fried noodles or preservatives. They can be made with boiling water or in the microwave, meaning at any given snack time you’re just three minutes from a bowl of pho. Pho’nomenal’s founder—a Vietnamese refugee who shares that while bouncing from place to place his family was “often forced to share one small pot of soup among the whole family”—has also partnered with Food Banks of America, pledging to donate 10,000 bowls for every million sold. In short: This is another snack we can get behind on many levels. Get them from Amazon for $27.99.
35. Meet my favorite dry soup mix (to go).
I am a huge fan of Dr. McDougall’s dry soup mixes, and truth be told, I was weaned on this stuff from a young age. This delicious vegan black bean and lime soup is the perfect combo of savory and spice, and I consider it well suited to breakfast, lunch, and dinner—and snack time of course. Amazon A single serving of this delicious concoction contains 15 grams of fiber, 21 grams of protein, 28 percent of your daily iron, and 30 percent of your potassium. In terms of flavor profile, in addition to black beans, the instant soup—which can be made with hot water or in the microwave—is super zesty thanks to hints of lime, red bell pepper, tomato, onion, garlic, and cilantro. Get them from Amazon for $16.98.
36. This soup-from-a-bag is Osso Good.
If you prefer soup you can squeeze from a pouch over powdered options that require mixing—and want to get in on the bone broth craze—Osso Good has you covered with their new-to-Amazon dairy- and gluten-free Soup’r Foods. This three pack features their Thai Carrot, Tomato Basil, and Butternut Squash flavors, all of which incorporate a chicken bone broth base. Amazon Osso’s Soup’r foods contain zero added sugar and the packaging is BPA-free. Also, all three soups are Whole30 approved. Get them from Amazon for $46.74.
37. Sip a snack of bone broth and mushrooms.
Want more of that bone broth goodness? Kettle & Fire’s got you covered with a collagen- and gelatin-rich snack you can sip: Mushroom Chicken Bone Broth with lion’s mane superfood mushrooms. Amazon This savory broth is made from organic chicken bones that are simmered for 12+ hours, meaning it’s free from hormones, antibiotics, and artificial ingredients. It is also dairy- and soy-free. Kettle & Fire recommends you heat this lighter-than-soup snack by simmering it over the stove (which is perfect for mindful eating on a leisurely day) but shares that it can be heated in the microwave for 40 seconds in a microwave-safe container if you need your collagen and lion’s mane on the fly. Get them from Amazon for $30.37.
Gym-Bag Ready
38. This is my go-to snack bar.
I developed a penchant for breakfasting on Chocolate Peppermint Stick LUNA bars plus a bottle of orange juice the first summer I spent on Cornell’s campus. (If you know Ithaca hills, you know the importance of a portable meal that’ll get you to class on time!) While I’m more of a rolled-oats-for-breakfast gal now, this whole nutrition bar is still my snacking go-to, and I’m never without a box of them in my desk drawer. Amazon LUNA bars are free from gluten, artificial flavors, and high-fructose corn syrup, and the delicious white chocolate peppermint bark on the bottom of these bars is actually dairy-free. That’s right, Chocolate Peppermint Stick is a vegan option that serves up 8 grams of protein along with insoluble fiber, iron, magnesium, and vitamin E, making them a perfect snack to toss in your #plantpowered gym bag. Get them from Amazon for $13.75.
39. Keto, vegan, and gluten-free, these high-tech bars have everyone covered.
Pegan Thin protein bars, which are indeed keto-friendly and vegan, are made in a dedicated gluten-free facility using stay-fresh technology that ensures they’ll be good for up to 18 months. Our thoughts on that: Toss one in every drawer, purse, bag, and pack so you’ll have a balanced snack any time a craving strikes in the next…year and a half. Amazon The variety box o’ 12 means you can try the Pegan bars in Lava Chocolate, Sweet Sunflower, Vanilla Cinnamon Roll, Cinn Raisin, and Ginger Snap. All five flavors are formulated with plant protein sourced from pumpkin seeds, organic sacha inchi, and [linkbuilder id=”6884″ text=”watermelon seeds”] plus sunflower seed butter, monk fruit extract, and ProDURA probiotics. Get them from Amazon for $29.99.
40. Variety is the spice of life—and potentially the fuel for your best workout yet.
When Thunderbird Real Food Bars says less is more, they’re talking about the number of ingredients in their bars—and the absence of added sweeteners, dairy, soy, or grain. And while we all have our favorites, sometimes more (and new!) really is better, especially when it comes to flavor profiles. That’s definitely the case when it comes to this Thunderbird Vegan Real Food Energy Bar Sampler Pack. Amazon Enjoy these Texan treats in eight flavors that translate to eight workouts fueled by something new—or the promise of a tasty (and gluten-free) treat on the other side of your sweat sesh. Get them from Amazon for $19.99.
You’ve probably heard the initials GMO being used to describe foods you purchase at your local grocery store but might not understand what the term means exactly. In case you aren’t familiar, GMO stands for genetically modified organism, which sounds kind of scary when you break down what it might mean. In short, GMOs can be plants, animals, viruses, or any bacterial organisms that have human-made modifications to their genes. These modifications are not naturally occurring, which is why so many Americans are concerned about the potential harm that genetically modified products could cause. For this reason, more and more companies are signing on to the Non-GMO Project, a non-profit organization that certifies that goods are created and manufactured free from genetically modified organisms. A number of big brands have signed on in recent years, including Trader Joe’s and Chipotle. Some environmental groups, however, are still not satisfied and are taking things a step further by demanding mandatory labeling of all genetically engineered foods. It doesn’t sound like a radical idea—after all, shouldn’t the consumer know what she is putting in her body? To help clear the air surrounding GMOs, how they’re used in food, and whether they present a danger to consumers (and/or the environment), we asked some common questions about this umbrella term.
What are GMOs, really?
To fully understand what GMOs are and how they work, you have to go back to their inception—on the farm. “Crops that are genetically modified, or engineered, have a specific gene or trait from another species inserted into its DNA in order to adopt that trait as part of its genome,” explains registered dietitian Jennie Schmidt of Schmidt Farms in Ray, Michigan. [pullquote align=”center”]In Jennie Schmidt’s experience and perspective as a farmer, genetically modifying organisms is not always a bad thing.[/pullquote] “Conventional breeding includes hybridization, cross breeding, grafting, chemical or radiation mutagenesis, polyploidy, and protoplast fusion—all of which ‘modify’ the genes of the plants they are breeding, and all of which are acceptable means of plant breeding in the certified organic system.” In Schmidt’s experience and perspective as a farmer, genetically modifying organisms is not always a bad thing. For example, golden rice recently gained approval in numerous countries (including the U.S.). Golden rice is rice that has daffodil genes inserted into it to increase the amount of vitamin A that rice is otherwise lacking. This is important because vitamin A deficiency is a public health crisis in some developing nations. According to the World Health Organization, more than 250,000 children go blind each year as a result of vitamin A deficiency. Another way that GMOs make their way into our food supply is through crops that have been modified with the goal of withstanding the effects of herbicides and pesticides, and some GMO crops are designed to survive periods of low water or drought.
What is the history of GMOs?
Many people don’t know this, but the first GMO was not a food at all. Instead, it was a pharmaceutical—human insulin, which was approved in 1982. “This allowed for production of … insulin that is genetically identical to human insulin … rather than harvesting pancreas[es] of pigs and cattle at the slaughterhouse and extracting insulin that was less pure and more allergenic for insulin-dependent diabetics,” Schmidt explains. The first genetically modified food crop to be sold was the Flavr Savr tomato in 1994. It was engineered to have less bruising and a longer shelf life, but it was highly unsuccessful because it did not have the fresh-picked flavor of in-season tomatoes. Various field crops soon followed suit, including soybeans, corn, and cotton, which were engineered with insect resistance or herbicide tolerance and approved for use in commercial production. “For us, adopting Bt corn (corn that’s been genetically modified) and herbicide-tolerant crops was just next steps of agricultural innovation,” says Schmidt. “My father-in-law saw the adoption of tractors in the ’30s and ’40s, the adoption of hybrid seeds in the ’50s and ’60s, the adoption of synthetic fertilizer in the ’50s and ’60s, the adoption of computers in the tractors in the ’80s and ’90s, so the adoption of these so-called GMOs was in his words ‘a no brainer.’” These, she explains, were common-sense practices to adopt to reduce agriculture’s impact on the environment. In short, farmers saw benefits.
Are farmers who do not use GMOs negatively affected by the use of GMOs?
One of the main apprehensions non-GMO farmers have is cross-contamination of their crops with GMO crops. “Non-GMO farmers are concerned that pollen from GMO crops could blow into their non-GMO fields and [they could] actually get sued for not properly paying for GMO seeds,” explains Roger E. Adams, PhD, a Houston-based dietitian, nutritionist, and founder of eatrightfitness. “Careful farming practices can prevent this, however, lawsuits of this type are mostly blown out of proportion and many farmers grow non-GMO and GMO crops on the same farm.”
Are GMOs safe?
The World Health Organization, the American Medical Association, the National Academy of Sciences, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science have all come to the same conclusion that there is not enough evidence to support the belief that GMOs are unsafe. Still, the concept of how they are created—the cross-breeding of DNA to create a food product that is not naturally occurring—does leave consumers with some unsettling concerns. John Bagnulo, PhD, a food scientist and the director of nutrition for Functional Formularies, believes that GMOs are inherently risky to whoever eats them because our microbiome is easily influenced by these “loosely” held genes. (Loosely held refers to the instability of GMO genes being introduced to the microbiome. As Bagnulo explains, “Once there is genetic modification, genes are much more easily swapped when exposed to microbes.”)
How many products in the U.S. currently use GMOs? What are some of the most common items that incorporate GMOs?
There are only 10 crops that are genetically modified and produced in the United States currently: corn, soybeans, cotton, non-browning potatoes, papaya, squash, canola, alfalfa, non-browning apples, and sugar beets. [pullquote align=”center”]Studies show that GMOs are making their way into 70 to 80 percent of conventional processed foods in the U.S.[/pullquote] It’s also worth noting that a growing number of alfalfa-based animal feeds are genetically modified. Because of this, Bagnulo explains, most conventional milk is produced with GMOs—and it’s not just milk. Studies show that GMOs are making their way into 70 to 80 percent of conventional processed foods in the U.S., according to the Grocery Manufacturers Association, since the majority of foods and beverages are produced with one or more of the ingredients listed.
Are food products in the U.S. required to have GMO labels to indicate that they have been genetically modified?
In July 2016, President Obama signed the National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Law, which set a nationwide standard for the disclosure of genetic material that has been modified through DNA techniques. As part of this law, however, a food manufacturer can choose among a set of options to disclose the presence of GMOs in their food. One of these options is a mere electronic scanner or digital link on the packaging that takes the consumer to a website containing this information. Kind of sneaky, right?
Coffee table books—they were never really something I thought I’d put much thought behind until I was gifted one as a house-warming present. Now, I can’t get enough of them, and I believe it to be my civic duty to spread the word that coffee table books are where it’s at. Look sophisticated AF with a perfectly styled coffee table and have excellent conversation starters nearby at all times. Whether you’re a traveler, a lover of all the cosmic things, or a total feminist who wants to make it known to all of her houseguests upon arrival, I’ve got the table book for you.
To Keep You Dreaming
If you’re passionate about any and everything that has to do with the beautiful sky we live under, these books are for you. And if your interests range anywhere from what’s written in the stars to what the stars are made of, these books are for you.
1. The Astrology of You and Me: How to Understand + Improve Every Relationship
Are you the shaman of your friend group? Chances are you’d fall in love with this astrological take on relationships. Written by Gary Goldschneider, this astrological relationship guide teaches you how to live peacefully with those around you—no matter their sign (we’re looking at you, Gemini). With chapters arranged by sun sign and coupled with stellar illustrations throughout, The Astrology of You and Me offers advice and guidance for every star-crossed situation imaginable. Urban Outfitters Get it from Urban Outfitters for $24.99
2. Universe: Exploring the Astronomical World
If you can make it past the captivating cover, you’ll find 300 images of our universe hand-picked by celestial experts ready to take you on a 2D exploration of the stars and planets. Using a range of human artifacts—from ancient cave illustrations to modern satellite images—Universe delivers a perfectly curated depiction of what we’ve always thought the universe to be, and beyond. Amazon Get it from Amazon for $40.76
To Keep You Grounded
You know we love some yoga here at HealthWay HQ—it’s only right that we dedicate a whole section of our coffee table book finds to our favorite practice. If you’re a fellow yogi who loves to talk flow over a morning cup of joe, these are for you.
3. Mindful Movement, A Book by Alo Yoga
Brought to you by the creators of Alo Yoga, this coffee table book meshes posts from the beautifully curated @AloYoga Instagram with wise words and incredible practices. This one is for all of the yogis out there who put their body and soul behind their practice for the world to see. Mindful Movement will inspire you to get lost in your practice and truly appreciate the calmness and clarity that comes with yoga. Neiman Marcus Get if from Neiman Marcus for $88.00
4. We Flow Hard: The Y7 Guide to Crafting Your Yoga Practice
Enjoy the beat-bumping flows and philosophy of Y7 Studio all the way from NYC in the comfort of your own home. We Flow Hard is a fitness and lifestyle book from the original hip-hop yoga studio that we’re sure will bring you just as much zen as it does #flowinspo. Amazon Get it from Amazon for $15.77
To Keep You Wandering
Are you a frequent traveler, or someone who’s frequently daydreaming of travel? These books will take you to a faraway place without the hassle of trip planning.
5. Hit The Road: Vans, Nomads, And Roadside Adventures
There’s a movement going on, and it’s called a nomadic lifestyle. Millennials all over the world are ditching their urban jungles and setting out for a roadside adventure. Hit The Road features stories from people of all different walks of life who have packed up and turned to a minimalist lifestyle for the sake of freedom. Featuring renovated airstreams and Volkswagen campers, this book is just as visually satisfying as it is inflicting of wanderlust. Amazon Get it from Amazon for $34.25
6. The Bucket List: 1000 Adventures Big & Small By Kath Stathers
This book takes you on a tour of life’s greatest wonders and awakens the adventurer in you. From bird watching in Kenya to swimming with dolphins in New Zealand, author Kath Stathers thinks of every little thing you could possibly want to see and do throughout your lifetime and pairs them with pictures to affirm that these are, in fact, reachable dreams. Urban Outfitters Get it from Urban Outfitters for $35.00
7. Wander Love: Lessons, Tips & Inspiration from a Solo Traveller
Who doesn’t love a good solo trip? If you didn’t before, you surely will after thumbing through this Instagram meets travel diary from travel blogger + photographer, Aubrey Daquinag. Wander Love is just as much of a photo journal as it is a solo travel guide—Daquinag dishes on her essentials for a digital nomad office, how to slay while en route, and how to up your travel photog skills. She even offers personal advice for solo lady travelers and unique destination guides for many countries. Get lost in the glory that is Wander Love. Urban Outfitters Get it from Urban Outfitters for $20.00
To Keep You Inspired
It’s 2018 and the girl power movement is so real and refreshing. Keep it rolling by incorporating one (or all) of these gorgeous books into your living room aesthetic.
8. Bad Girls Throughout History: 100 Remarkable Women Who Changed the World
We love bad b*tches, and it’s not a problem. The description is truly in the title—Bad Girls Throughout History makes mention of 100 of the baddest women that we know and love, featuring the likes of Cleopatra and Coretta Scott King, to name a couple. Paired with fun and colorful illustrations, you’ll breeze through these 100 women in one sitting while sipping your morning matcha. Urban Outfitters Get it from Urban Outfitters for $19.95
9. In The Company Of Women: Inspiration and Advice from over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs
If you’re barely making it out of bed on Monday mornings, reach for this book. Compiling a list of the world’s most influential ladies, In The Company Of Women is sure to give you a surge of motivation. New York Times’ bestselling author Emma Straub profiled more than 100 exceptional and influential women from various different industries. In the pages, you’ll learn how these phenomenal women embraced their creative spirit, laughed in the face of adversity, and took a seat at the table that is entrepreneurship. This book will give you the kick in the pants you need to get up and make your dreams come true. Amazon Get it from Amazon for $19.21
10. Zaha Hadid
Zaha Hadid, Gigi and Bella’s older and estranged sister (just kidding, there is absolutely no relation to the model sisters), knows a thing or two about art and beauty. Zaha Hadid is regarded as the greatest female architect in the world. Her designs were both ground-breaking and futuristic. Her creativity and grit made her the first woman to win both the Pritzker Prize for architecture and the RIBA Royal Gold Medal. We could go on about Hadid and her tenacious spirit, but we’ll let you read for yourself. This book by Philip Jodidio showcases Hadid’s most spectacular buildings and acts as an homage to the late architect that blew the world’s mind with her unimaginable designs. Amazon Get it from Amazon for $14.68
To Keep You Well
11. The Little Book Of Self-Care
Filled with 100 activities to foster connection between your body, mind, spirit, and surroundings, this oh-so inspirational book will leave you feeling refreshed and living your best life. Leave it on your marble top for when you need to spice up your self-care routine or keep on your bedside for a nightly reminder. Amazon Get it from Amazon for $10.20
12. Leaf Supply: A Guide to Keeping Happy House Plants
It’s a fact—house plants make us happier. So it’s of no surprise that we’ve included this amazing houseplant care guide. You know what they say: “happy plants, happy home.” This aesthetically pleasing cover will go with any decor style, and your plants will thank you, too. Urban Outfitters Get it from Urban Outfitters for $35.00
13. Saladish: A Crunchier, Grainier, Herbier, Heartier, Tastier Way With Vegetables
We get it, shoveling down salads and veggies can seem like a chore when you’re eating them to stay well rather than just to enjoy them. After reading this book (or even just looking at the vivid pictures), we’re positive you’ll view your peas and carrots a little bit differently. Saladish dives into exotic plants and herbs to transform your boring side dish salad into a healthy and satisfying meal. Amazon Get it from Amazon for $42.36
A skincare routine is ideally something you do every day, which means it’s basically as mundane as brushing your teeth. It’s easy to fall into a rut of using the same products day after day and month after month, to the point where those 10 minutes you take at the end or start of each day start to feel tiresome and forced instead of relaxing and indulgent.
Shake up your current skincare routine and elevate the experience with a few of these game-changing skincare products. Beyond the obvious benefits to your skin, these products will also inject a little bit of luxury into your everyday life.
These aren’t your average drugstore makeup wipes. Specifically designed for sensitive skin, these makeup wipes remove waterproof mascara and full-coverage foundation with just a few swipes and leave the rest of your skin in peace, instead of raw and red like other wipes. Amazon These French-made wipes are oil free and made to soothe your skin as they power-wash away all the dirt and makeup. Pick up a pack of Bioderma Sensibio H2O Biodegradable Facial Cleansing and Makeup Remover Wipes and throw them in your gym bag or travel bag for a quick and easy clean face on the go. Get it on Amazon now for $9.90.
2. La Roche-Posay Micellar Cleansing Water for Sensitive Skin
If you’re a contact lens wearer, you know the struggle of trying to find a cleanser that doesn’t irritate your eyes. Made with some of the same ingredients that are in contact solution, micellar cleansing water is super gentle yet effective in removing dirt, oil, makeup, and even pollution from the skin. Amazon It feels like water and works like magic to remove makeup, and there’s no need to rinse after using. It’s even hydrating and soothing enough to use as a toner. The La Roche-Posay Micellar Cleansing Water for Sensitive Skin is dermatologist- and ophthalmologist-tested and free from all soaps, oils, parabens, and alcohol. Get it on Amazon now for $19.99.
3. Julep Love Your Bare Face Cleansing Oil
This antioxidant-rich oil blend features rosehip seed, grapeseed, olive, pink grapefruit, and green coffee bean oil to instantly cleanse and moisturize your skin. The luxurious oils in this product do major double duty to remove waterproof makeup and sunscreen without stripping your skin, while at the same time delivering a dose of powerful ingredients to soothe, repair, and improve your skin’s moisture levels. Skin feels clean after using, and there’s no sticky or greasy residue left behind, so it works for all skin types—including oily. The Julep Love Your Bare Face Cleansing Oil is a great choice for those who follow the double cleansing method. Get it on Amazon now for $28.
4. Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm
Applying this product to your skin is like watching a science experiment in action. The balm-to-oil formula liquifies upon contact with your skin and then shape-shifts again into a milky lather when water is applied. It smells like frolicking through a field of wildflowers on an early spring day or like freshly washed linens hanging on a clothesline to dry. A bestseller and an Allure Best of Beauty award winner, the Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm delivers a powerful clean using only the best ingredients found in nature, including moringa tree extract and echinacea green envy. Get it on Amazon now for $34.
5. ELEMIS Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash
This cleanser is all about balance. It encourages the skin’s natural cell renewing cycle by using a patented tri-enzyme technology to gently exfoliate away any dead skin cells, while white truffle and Brazilian babassu oil work to replenish moisture levels. Amazon This product is unusual in that it’s great for acne and yet gentle enough to use twice a day without drying out skin. This innovative formula brings together groundbreaking science with some of the most powerful ingredients found in nature to create a product that is both eco-rich and technologically advanced. Get it on Amazon now for $49.
6. First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser
Cleansing is probably the least extravagant part of your skincare routine, which is why you need this product on your top shelf. This air-whipped formula feels like butter when applied to your skin and then transforms into a luxurious cream when blended with water. As one of the first steps in your skincare routine, this cleanser sets the stage for other treatment products and leaves skin soft, supple, and bright. Amazon It’s pH balanced and works to maintain the skin’s natural acidity without stripping, which means less breakouts and no more tight, dry skin after cleansing. Fragrance-free and infused with a powerful botanical antioxidant blend, the First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser achieves maximum results with minimum irritation. Get it on Amazon now for $19.98.
7. Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist
Nothing makes you feel quite as pampered as a facial mist. This superfine mist contains naturally occurring antioxidants that restore and hydrate the skin with no artificial fragrances and is made with ingredients extracted from herbs and flowers picked by hand on Jurlique’s own organic farm in the South Australian hills. Your skin will drink this stuff up. Amazon Facial mists aren’t just for show: Using a mist before crucial skincare steps like toners and serums actually helps those products penetrate deeper into the skin, allowing for better and faster results. Get it on Amazon now for $17.09.
8. Dr. Hauschka Facial Toner
This hydrating toner firms the elasticity of pores, balances your skin’s moisture content, and leaves skin feeling fresh—all in one elegant package. The clear glass bottle contains an amber-colored liquid and features a simple label with no difficult-to-pronounce words. Amazon The packaging is a reflection of what’s inside—just 10 ingredients make up this refreshing toner, which is pretty straightforward ingredient-wise compared to most skincare products. Not only does it look great on your vanity, but the fine mist also leaves a faint oily sensation that feels incredibly lush and hydrating. Get it on Amazon now for $38.14.
9. DERMA E Radiance Toner With Glycolic Acid and Rosehip Extract
Infused with glycolic acid and rosehip extract, this alcohol-free toner hydrates and treats the skin after cleansing. Similar to a makeup primer, this toner preps your pores for the rest of your skincare routine by essentially wiping the slate clean. This fast-penetrating liquid exfoliates and deep cleans pores while also nourishing the skin, leaving it plump and glowy. Amazon Used over time, it can actually help fade the look of acne scars and improve skin texture. If you feel like something’s missing in your skincare routine, it might be the DERMA E Radiance Toner with Glycolic Acid and Rosehip Extract. Get it on Amazon now for $12.49.
10. Clarins Toning Lotion With Chamomile
Like a warm cup of tea, this toning lotion with chamomile is the perfect bedtime lullaby to gently sing your skin to sleep. It’s alcohol-free, and with purifying chamomile and linden extracts, this product soothes irritated skin and leaves normal-to-dry skin types perfectly refreshed and soft to the touch. Amazon This toner closes your pores, turns out the lights, and tucks you into bed. Well, not quite, but it is extremely soothing. Pick up the Clarins Toning Lotion and say goodbye and goodnight to dry, parched skin. Get it on Amazon now for $19.85.
11. Yu-Be Foaming Skin Polish
Physical exfoliators that don’t feel like sandpaper against your skin are hard to come by, which is what makes this next product so special. Rice bran and bamboo combine with green tea, geranium oil, and camphor to create a luxuriously foaming scrub that feels rich and soft. Amazon Made for use on the body and the face, this product is also a blessing for those who suffer from tricky skin conditions like eczema and keratosis pilaris. Take it into the shower and give yourself a full-body scrub before a big night out for polished and glowing skin all over. Get it on Amazon now for $18.32.
12. Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment
Extravagant prices on skincare aren’t always an indicator for truly effective products, but in this case, the product is worth every penny. This all-in-one lactic acid treatment does it all and more. It exfoliates, brightens, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and hyperpigmentation. If you have any skincare-related problem at all, this product will help, but it’s going to cost you. Amazon Near immediate results and healthy, glowing skin don’t come cheap, but this pricy product sure does deliver on every promise. When people say skincare is an investment, this is the product they’re talking about. Pick up a bottle of Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment and see what all the talk is about. Get it on Amazon now for $105.
13. CANE + AUSTIN Retexture Pad
Nothing is more relaxing and luxurious than a really good facial. When you can’t make it to the spa, have an at-home spa day with these treatment pads. These facial peels storm your skin with the power of a 20 percent glycolic acid clinical treatment to exfoliate, renew your skin’s texture, and enhance skin luminosity to reveal brighter, healthy-looking skin, while also helping to rebuild collagen. Amazon This is a great weekly treatment for acne-prone skin or whenever you feel like your skin needs a little pick-me-up. Grab a jar of the CANE + AUSTIN Retexture Pads and enjoy an at-home facial in two business days (with Amazon Prime). Get it on Amazon now for $78.
14. Vichy Minéral 89 Daily Skin Booster Serum and Moisturizer
This serum is a real superhero of skincare. It fights and protects your skin from internal and external aggressors such as cold weather, pollution, stress, and fatigue, which can make your skin appear dull and dehydrated. Amazon Harnessing the power of thermal water with 15 essential minerals and hyaluronic acid, this two-in-one serum and moisturizer hydrates, plumps, and fortifies skin to protect against these dangerous intruders. A 2017 Oprah Magazine Beauty Award Winner, the Vichy Minéral 89 Daily Skin Booster Serum and Moisturizer is the superhero your skin needs. Get it on Amazon now for $29.50.
15. Cellex-C Advanced-C Serum
Vitamin C isn’t just important for your immune system. When added to your daily routine, vitamin C can help even out skin tone, protect skin from the harmful effects of pollution, and diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also firming the skin. Amazon This product is a vitamin C powerhouse delivered in a lightweight, oil-free, aqueous solution that contains high levels of both free-form and hydrolyzed L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) with powerful antioxidant protection. Translation: It has all of the good stuff and none of the bad to deliver fast, dramatic results. Pick up a bottle of Cellex-C Advanced-C Serum and get to glowing. Get it on Amazon now for $101.54.
Unless you are one of the rare people who actually drinks more than the recommended eight glasses of water per day, your skin is probably thirsty and calling out for some relief. This serum delivers a shot of hydration straight to the source. It helps re-activate skin’s hydration mechanisms and replenish its water reserves, so your skin is prepared the next time you go too long without water. Amazon Formulated with organic grape water and hyaluronic acid, this serum allows skin to appear more supple and hydrated without being greasy or oily, if that’s something that bothers you. Give your skin a nice, refreshing drink of the Caudalie Vinosource S.O.S. Thirst-Quenching Serum. Get it on Amazon now for $33.15.
17. ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Super Serum Elixir
Collagen is a major skincare buzzword right now, and for good reason. It’s the skin’s building block that provides strength and structure to the cells in your body. As you age, your body naturally stops producing collagen, which is why you see it in so many skincare products touting anti-aging benefits. Amazon This serum contains African birch bark extract, which enhances the synthesis of collagen and prevents premature aging. It’s clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and helps skin feel firmer with improved elasticity. If aging is an area of concern, pick up the ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Super Serum Elixir. Get it on Amazon now for $78.50.
18. Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer
When it comes to skincare, fruit stem cells are the future. This moisturizer contains a proprietary blend of fruit stem cells and vitamin C to reduce wrinkles, improve hydration, and boost radiance. Amazon Certified organic, antioxidant-rich ingredients and plant-based oils hydrate deep into fine lines and increase skin elasticity. The innovative press-top delivery system ensures just the right amount of product every time with zero waste. Get it on Amazon now for $70.
19. skyn ICELAND Pure Cloud Cream
Light as air and smooth as silk, this moisturizer packs quite a punch for being so soft. By using a combination of aloe, almond oil, and oat extract to soothe irritation and inflammation, this product works overtime to hydrate, soothe, pamper, and protect severely dry, sensitive skin. Amazon Whether your skin is stressed from sun exposure, harsh weather, or cosmetic procedures, this is the hero product in your skin’s first aid kit. Get your skin back in the game by picking up the skyn ICELAND Pure Cloud Cream. Get it on Amazon now for $55.
20. Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream
Water cream just sounds mega-hydrating, doesn’t it? It’s no surprise that this moisturizer delivers luxurious hydration with the help of one major skin-saving ingredient: hyaluronic acid. Famous for its capacity to hold vast amounts of water, thus replenishing skin and helping it appear more plump and supple, hyaluronic acid isn’t the only star of this show. Amazon Papaya enzymes help smooth texture, while alpha-arbutin visibly brightens. Since it’s water-based, it absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a film on your skin, which makes it great for under makeup. Drench your skin in hydration and pick up the Sunday Riley Tidal Brightening Enzyme Water Cream. Get it on Amazon now for $65.
21. L’Occitane Luxurious Divine Star
This product is luxury skincare at its finest. This rich, opulent cream is miraculously silky in texture and melts into every pore and cell for ultimate hydration and supreme comfort. Made with seven plant-derived active ingredients, this moisturizer heals from the inside out and leaves a fantastic glow to the skin. Amazon It caresses every curve on your face and envelopes your skin in a velvety blanket of softness that is truly fit for a queen. A little bit of this heavenly moisturizer goes a long way, so be sure to cherish every drop. Treat yourself to a jar of the L’Occitane Luxurious Divine Star. Get it on Amazon now for $110.
22. Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Skin Protectant Cream
A longtime favorite of makeup artists, this legendary moisturizer has achieved cult status among the fashion and beauty elite since its creation more than 80 years ago in 1930. This product is like the Swiss army knife of the beauty world. It calms, protects, and hydrates skin for up to eight hours and can be used on nails, lips, eyebrows, and more. Amazon Even as this multitasking moisturizer approaches its 90th birthday, it shows no signs of slowing down, picking up Beauty Magazine’s Classic Product of the Year Award in 2016. Show some respect to your skincare elders and pick up a tube of beauty’s best-kept secret, Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Skin Protectant Cream. Get it on Amazon now for $22.
23. ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream
Seaweed in skincare might sound fishy, but it works. This powerful anti-wrinkle day cream features a unique Mediterranean algae, padina pavonica, blended with ginkgo biloba, chlorella, and rose to deliver near-oceanic levels of moisture that dive deep into the skin while also visibly improving the appearance of fine lines. Amazon Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkle depth by up to 78 percent and increase hydration and moisture levels by up to 45 percent, this green cream is a real catch. Take the bait and pick up a jar of ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Marine Cream. Get it on Amazon for $121.60.
24. StriVectin-TL Tightening Neck Cream
Skincare shouldn’t just stop at the chin. Your neck and décolleté deserve equal attention, and with this product, the spotlight is finally on them. Specifically formulated to fight “tech neck,” which is a fun name for the horizontal lines and sagging lines you get from repeatedly staring down at a phone or keyboard, this product contains protein tighteners and a proprietary form of vitamin B3. Amazon Apply to the neck and jawline contour to experience tighter, smoother, and more supple skin, which contributes to a more youthful-looking profile. If you’ve been ignoring your neck for too long, pick up the StriVectin-TL Tightening Neck Cream. Get it on Amazon now for $95.
25. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Soothing Eye Cream
The skin around the eyes is very thin, which makes it all the more important to treat and moisturize. Formulated with shea butter and glycerin, this eye cream has a unique gel-like texture that feels cooling and soothing to the delicate eye area. Amazon Made for sensitive skin, this product has been stripped down to just the essentials and provides immediate and long-lasting comfort for dry, uncomfortable skin around the eye area. Everything about this product was created for maximum comfort and effectiveness, even down to the airtight packaging. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Soothing Eye Cream for Very Sensitive Eyes is the perfect minimalist eye cream. Get it on Amazon now for $24.99.
26. Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Eye Treatment
If you’re looking for an eye cream that works harder and smarter, look no further. This treatment contains a blend of certified organic, antioxidant-rich juices that work to improve elasticity and reduce the appearance of dark circles and fine lines around the eyes. Amazon Jojoba and shea tag team to deliver rich hydration to the thin area around the eyes, while organic essential fatty acids of evening primrose, borage, and linseed reduce puffiness. It’s a one-two punch that helps address nearly every skincare concern around your delicate eye area. Get it on Amazon now for $70.
27. skyn ICELAND Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels
Puffy eyes can be caused by too much fun or too little sleep the night before, but either way, they’re about the worst thing to wake up to. These cooling gel patches target the eye area with powerful firming ingredients to de-puff, tone, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Amazon Like a cup of coffee for your face, these pads immediately give your undereyes the jolt of energy they need to get through the day. For even better results, store them in the fridge. Pick up a pack of skyn ICELAND Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels and save them for a rainy day. Get it now on Amazon for $30.
28. Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil
This oil is straight up out of this world. Luxurious oil teams up with other ingredients to stop breakouts in their tracks, clarify and clear congested skin, and clean out your pores. With 1.5 percent salicylic acid, this powerful medicated oil challenges acne and blackheads to a duel and takes them down time and time again. Amazon Tea tree oil and black cumin seed oil are key players on the bench and help promote clear, blemish-free skin. Although some reviewers say this oil smells a little like pizza, don’t let that deter you. Unlike pizza, it’s actually good for your skin. Clear for takeoff and pick up a bottle of Sunday Riley U.F.O. Ultra-Clarifying Face Oil.
You mom told you eat your fruit and vegetables, but I bet she never told you to put them on your face. This face oil is the cosmetic version of green juice, harnessing the power of superfoods like broccoli seed, poppy seed, cucumber, macadamia, rice bran, daikon radish, rosehip seed, flaxseed, and meadowfoam seed to feed your skin its own version of greens. Amazon Both 100 percent natural and 100 percent good for you, this facial oil nourishes and hydrates to promote smooth, glowing skin. Get your greens with ELEMIS Superfood Facial Oil. Get it now on Amazon for $55.
30. Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen
Suncreens are an essential, yet often forgotten and overlooked, part of every skincare routine. This sunscreen doesn’t have any crazy superpowers, but it does have a feel-good formula that makes you want to wear it, and at the end of the day, isn’t that what’s most important? Amazon This sunscreen is water resistant, oil-free, and absorbs quickly into the skin, which makes it perfect for everyday wear or a day at the beach. No matter what you’re doing, do it wearing sunscreen. Protect your face and pick up a tube of this Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen. Get it now on Amazon for $32.
31. AHAVA Purifying Dead Sea Mud Mask
This deep-cleansing mask contains energizing mud and minerals straight from the Dead Sea, the most mineral-rich mud on Earth. Dead Sea mud, kaolin, vitamin B, and chamomile work in perfect harmony to detoxify and hydrate your skin. This mask is as natural as the raw earth it comes from, and unlike traditional masks, it doesn’t need time to dry. Amazon This two-minute mini-facial delivers serious results, absorbing excess sebum and debris from your pores without drying out your skin. It can also be used as a spot treatment overnight to reduce redness and inflammation that occurs with breakouts. Pick up the AHAVA Purifying Dead Sea Mud Mask today. Get it now on Amazon for $27.05.
32. Herbivore Botanicals Organic Blue Tansy Resurfacing Mask
This mask is a winning combination of alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA) that gently and naturally exfoliate the skin. This product gets its name from the powerful element of blue tansy oil, which gives the oil its beautiful blue color and works to reduce redness and soothe irritated skin. Amazon White willow bark, fruit enzymes including papaya and pineapple, and aloe make up the rest of this colorful concoction and deliver the natural AHAs and BHAs that make this mask so effective at unclogging pores and getting rid of dead skin cells. The smell is strong, but the result is worth it: smoother, softer, brighter-looking skin. Pick up a jar of Herbivore Botanicals Organic Blue Tansy Resurfacing Mask today. Get it now on Amazon for $48.
33. Sand & Sky Australian Pink Clay Face Mask
Made with Australian botanical-infused pink clay, this 4-in-1 mask detoxes, invigorates, refines, and brightens skin texture in 10 minutes or less. The clay tightens pores while also boosting radiance, leaving skin bright and soft after just one use. Amazon The bonus face mask brush allows you to carefully paint the product on your face, which is as fun as it is sanitary. Clay masks are ideal for acne-prone or combination skin, as they can sometimes be a bit too harsh for dry and sensitive skin. Grab a jar of the Sand & Sky Australian Pink Clay Face Mask.
34. Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask
Congested skin is no match for this active charcoal mask. Best used after a hot shower when your pores are open, this mask annihilates problematic pores, blackheads, and breakouts. Bamboo charcoal helps remove excess oil, while white China clay absorbs toxins and lecithin dissolves impurities. Amazon This mask flushes out dirt and debris that can cause skin to look sad and dull, leaving a clearer and more clarified complexion that feels clean from the inside out. With repeated use, pores will appear smaller and congested skin more refreshed. Pick up a tube of the Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask and tell blackheads to pack up their things, because they’re moving out. Get it now on Amazon for $11.99.
35. Forever Glow Anti Aging Face Mask
This sheet mask touts itself as the “one night stand of skincare,” but instead of leaving you sad and alone the next morning, it promises to leave your skin looking plump and amazing, and it has the receipts to back up that claim. Amazon Developed by the celebrity facialist Joanna Vargas, who boasts a client list featuring names like Naomi Watts, Julianne Moore, and Maggie Gyllenhaal, this vitamin- and nutrient-rich mask coats your skin in ginkgo biloba extract, olive leaf, cabbage rose extract, and hyaluronic acid for twenty minutes. Once your time is up, skin looks younger, hydrated, and healthier. Get the glow that celebrities love with the Forever Glow Anti Aging Face Mask. Get it now on Amazon for $75.
36. Karuna Brightening + Face Mask
Glowing skin is just 10 to 20 minutes away with this brightening face mask. Let grapefruit seed extract, rare Asian plant extracts, and salicylic acid soak into your skin while you lie back and let gravity do the work to push the powerful serum deeper into the skin for maximum effectiveness. Amazon The 100 percent all-natural fiber cloth is made from biodegradable wood pulp natural cloth that retains 50 percent more moisture than synthetic material. The mask’s cooling sensation is perfect on a hot summer day or whenever you need to deliver a blast of thirst-quenching hydration to the face. Pick up this pack of four today. Get it now on Amazon for $26.60.
37. Dr. Jart Mask Sheet Set
These targeted sheet masks are the answer to any and all skincare concerns, and the utility is in the variety. If your skin needs hydration, pore-tightening, or toning, this pack of masks has something for you. The masks are absolutely drenched in that miraculous serum, which seals your skin with a blend of good-for-you ingredients. Amazon The physical sheet mask prevents evaporation of the good stuff, while also keeping any of the bad stuff out. The result is radiant, plumper, luminous skin that begs to be touched. Get it now on Amazon for $25.46.
38. Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Dry, flaky lips need not suffer any longer. This soft balm coats your lips in a silky sleeve of vitamin C, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and repair ultra dry, cracking lips. It’s meant to work overnight, but it’s also great in the daytime if your lips the extra attention. Amazon The pink tint is just sheer enough to let your natural lip color shine through, and the silicone paint brush included with the lip balm makes application easy and mess free. Ideal for brisk winters or long-haul flights, this lip balm could be more adequately described as a lip saver. Pick up a jar of the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. Get it now on Amazon for $14.99.
39. 2 in 1 Rose Quartz Roller and Gua Sha
This cousin of the jade roller is made up of rose quartz, which is a symbol of love—and more importantly, it’s pink. It looks gorgeous displayed on a vanity, and it can also help improve blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. The best way to use it is to go against gravity and roll in an upward and outward motion. Amazon It certainly won’t give you a facelift, but some people claim that it can help get rid of the toxins sitting stagnant on your face, and overall it feels like a mini face massage. The smaller roller is for use around the eyes to reduce puffiness. For best results, keep this in the fridge and pull it out any time you feel bloated or puffy. Try out the 2 in 1 Rose Quartz Roller and Gua Sha. Get it now on Amazon for $69.99.
40. Nurse Jamie Uplift Massaging Beauty Roller
This unique beauty roller is made with 24 massaging stones to firm and lift your skin. It’s designed by skincare expert and registered nurse Jamie Sherrill, who is famous for her collagen-boosting facials. This product is said to promote anti-aging techniques used in those very facials. Amazon The rhythmic rolling action works like an iron for the skin to help reduce puffiness and temporarily smooth away wrinkles and fine lines. The tool has a soothing sensation, and if you close your eyes, you can imagine you’re at Nurse Jamie’s spa instead of in your own bathroom. Get it now on Amazon for $69.
Ready to start meditating more? This guide and our audio meditations will help you relieve tension, be more mindful, and carry positive thoughts with you throughout the day.
When it comes to beauty and personal care products, we’re more conscious than ever of what we put on our faces and bodies. We want to know what impact questionable ingredients have on our health, and there’s a lot we need to educate ourselves about—from parabens and aluminum to phthalates and silicone. Then there are environmental issues. And let’s not forget about animal testing!
These are all valid concerns, so HealthyWay has done the legwork to help you make informed choices when it comes to finding the best and safest products.
1. This clay mask is no longer a secret.
Women have been using clay masks since the time of Cleopatra. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is a naturally effective way to help draw out oil and impurities in acne-prone and oily skin. It’s made with just a single ingredient—100% natural calcium bentonite clay—that’s harvested in Death Valley, California. Amazon There are absolutely no animal products, additives, or fragrances in this product. Mix the clay with water or apple cider vinegar to create a thick mask; leave it on for up to 20 minutes for your best skin this century. Get it on Amazon for $8.60.
2. Skip double cleansing with this genius product.
Double cleansing has become popular because the results are a completely clean face. But who has time to wash twice? That’s where Algenist Genius Ultimate Anti-Aging Melting Cleanser comes in. This product is like having two cleansers in one, making the second cleanse an unnecessary step. Amazon To use, warm it up in your hands and then apply to your face without any water. It will feel like cleansing oil and remove all traces of makeup—even eye makeup. Then add water and it transforms into an emulsion cleanser to gently but effectively clean the skin. Your face will be left feeling both squeaky clean and soft. Get it from Amazon for $37.95.
3. Get fresher looking eyes naturally.
If you think a typical cream feels too heavy around the delicate eye area, Odacité Ba+S Eye Contour Serum Concentrate could be a better choice. The formula is packed with powerful natural ingredients including vitamins E, F, and A as well as plant sterols and a quartet of natural oils. Amazon Baobab oil helps reduce signs of aging by improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles. Sarsaparilla, palmarosa neroli, and lavender oils may also aid with wrinkle reduction and relieve the puffiness and dark circles that so many of us struggle with. Every eye area need is met with this complete serum. Get it from Amazon for $42.00.
4. Skip the can and get smoother legs.
When we’re trying to shave seconds off of our shower routine, sometimes we skip the shaving cream. But that can lead to cuts, nicks, or even worse. So, it’s important that we treat ourselves to a better shave. Avalon Organics Moisturizing Shave Cream in lavender makes this really easy to do. Amazon With a delightfully creamy yet light texture, this 100 percent organic product is both deeply moisturizing and clean rinsing. The lavender scent can help aid relaxation for an extra special moment of self-care. With plant oils and aloe vera, this cream is a natural way to have soft, smooth legs. Get it from Amazon for $16.50.
5. Go coconuts for this shampoo and conditioner.
If you like piña coladas, you will love this shampoo and conditioner duo. Love Beauty and Planet Volume and Bounty Shampoo and Conditioner with Coconut Water & Mimosa Flower might be tropically scented, but that doesn’t mean the ingredients are on vacation. Amazon Even city dwellers’ hair can smell like an island breeze. The highly effective, plant-based, and vegan formula lifts flat hair to give it bodacious body. The result is moisturized locks that aren’t weighed down. Both the shampoo and conditioner are paraben-, silicone-, and cruelty-free. Furthermore, both products are safe to use on color-treated hair. Get the pair from Amazon for $13.77.
6. A solution for a less-than-glamorous beauty problem.
We hate to talk about it, but thigh chafing can be a serious problem for many women. This issue isn’t simply inconvenient or annoying—it can be incredibly uncomfortable, making it hard for us to exercise or even walk. Luckily, an easy and convenient solution exists. MegaBabe Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Stick is our she-ro! Amazon Although the packaging might look like a deodorant stick, don’t be confused. This powerful product contains non-toxic ingredients including aloe, pomegranate seed extract, vitamin E, and grapeseed oil to fight chafing. Slide some on and you have a natural barrier that soothes, protects, and moisturizes this sensitive area. Get it from Amazon for $25.29.
7. Say “oui” to this classic French skincare product.
Ever wonder how French women keep their skin looking so perfect? There’s a good chance their secret is Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water. There are many micellar waters out there, but Bioderma is the original. Amazon Micelles lift dirt and impurities and remove makeup with gentle ease. Just soak a cotton pad, wipe your face, and pat dry. There are so many uses for this product. For sensitive, irritated skin, it can be a substitute for a regular cleanser or makeup remover. It’s also helpful for all skin types when a regular face wash just isn’t taking everything off. Micellar water also works like a dream to clean dirty makeup brushes thoroughly without soap. Get it from Amazon for $12.93.
8. Take everything off your face with the least amount of effort.
Whether it’s a late night or just lack of time, we all have moments when we need to wash our faces but don’t want to. Fortunately, the solution to the problem is simple: Simple Kind to Skin Facial Wipes. Amazon These are an easy, virtually effortless way to remove makeup, cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize in just one step. The two sides do double duty: One side exfoliates to remove dead skin cells, dirt, and oil, and the other cleanses and moisturizes with aloe vera. Formulated with triple purified water, these wipes do not contain dyes, perfume, or harsh chemicals. Get a set of four packs from Amazon for $16.14.
9. Bring the spa home with this scrub.
Who doesn’t love a deeply exfoliating body scrub? It feels just like a trip to a fancy spa. But the easier, less expensive option is using Tree Hut Coconut Lime Shea Sugar Scrub. Quite simply, this product smells like paradise. Amazon The paraben-free formula is made with sugar as opposed to salt, which is what many scrubs, especially in this price range, are formulated with. So there’s no risk of that burning feeling or any potential irritation. Avocado and other natural oils provide a serious dose of moisture to the skin, making post-shower body lotion unnecessary. Get it from Amazon for $18.47.
10. This appealing product can change your skin.
Exfoliating and removing skin cells is vital to the health of your skin. Many of us get chemical peels or deep exfoliation treatments. But that can be irritating and costly. MyChelle Pumpkin Enzyme Peel is nature’s gentler version of a chemical peel. Amazon Safe for all skin types, this peel uses the power of pumpkin to shed that layer of dull skin for a glowing complexion. Formulated with only safe ingredients—it is EWG Verified as well as vegetarian and gluten, paraben-, petroleum-, phthalate-, silicone-, and sulfate-free. The product is also free of any artificial fragrances and colors. Get it from Amazon for $21.33.
11. This oil is nature’s secret to better brows and lashes.
Thick brows and long lashes aren’t simply a trend. Both looks are here to stay. But that doesn’t mean using dangerous chemicals near your eyes or getting painful and pricey microblading is necessary. Amazon Nature’s gift of castor oil may be all that is necessary to achieve the hair growth and thickness we all want. Cold pressed castor oil by Kate Blanc is 100 percent pure and USDA certified organic. The oil comes paired with three different applicators to make it easy to apply to your lashes and brows—and even to your cuticles for thicker, longer, nails. Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
12. This product is so Coola.
The number one way to prevent the signs of aging is to use sunscreen every single day. But most sunscreens can feel too greasy under a face of makeup, which is why so many of us end up skipping it. Amazon So COOLA Dawn Patrol Classic SPF 30 Makeup Primer is a game changer. With a whipped, almost dry texture, it feels as close to naked skin as sunscreen can get. Apply it before foundation for a fresh face all day long. This product is also a great value because it’s truly a two-in-one. Get it from Amazon for $39.90.
13. This is the one product you must never forget to put on.
For those of us with a fair complexion or skin that is really sensitive to the sun, a daily sunscreen with a high SPF is a must. But that can be a nuisance when it doesn’t feel good on the skin. With Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen with Cellular Response Technology SPF 50, that’s simply not a problem. Amazon Oil-free and non-comedogenic, this lightweight lotion absorbs quickly and won’t feel greasy. The small size of the leak-proof bottle makes it ideal for travel or to keep in your handbag on the go. Plus, it’s formulated with safe ingredients and oxybenzone-free. But most important, it provides broad-spectrum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Get it from Amazon for $19.00.
14. Give your face a refreshing drink.
We all have those hot, sweaty, or busy days when we just need to take a moment (even a brief one) for ourselves and cool down. That’s why Coco Ensoleille Face Aperitif Facial Mist in Orange Blossom feels like a dream. Amazon The compact bottle fits perfectly in any bag—even a chic clutch. It hydrates and refreshes the face with natural florals and water. The light orange blossom scent isn’t overpowering; it’s just enough to feel fresh and clean again. Use it on bare skin post-workout or after applying makeup as a setting spray. Get it from Amazon for $40.00.
15. Note this BB cream.
Not all occasions call for a full-on face of foundation. That’s why NOTE Cosmetics BB Cream can make an excellent alternative to using regular makeup. This paraben-free SPF 15 formula is available in three different shades, and it’s packed with a variety of good-for-your-skin ingredients. Amazon Wheat germ is said to help keep the face young and healthy looking; grape extract can aid in the fading of dark spots; vitamin E provides protection against free radicals; and sunflower oil can even out skin tone. With its great coverage, this BB cream is grade A. Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
16. Help your body stay youthful with this necessity.
Sure, we’re vigilant about protecting our faces from the sun. But whether we are going out for a run or will be in direct contact with the rays at the beach or pool, we should be applying and reapplying sunscreen all day long. A wrinkle-free face won’t distract from a sun-damaged body. Amazon So don’t forget to apply sunscreen everywhere. Alba Botanica Hawaiian Green Tea Natural Sunblock SPF 45 offers both UVA and UVB protection without all the harsh chemicals found in many sunscreens. It’s water-resistant and paraben-, oxybenzone-, and phthalate-free. And you can feel extra good about slathering this safe sunscreen on because it’s not tested on animals. Get it from Amazon for $10.37.
17. This lotion is perfect for everyone in your home.
The skin is the body’s largest organ, and it absorbs everything we apply to it. So if we use a large amount of a particular product regularly, it’s important to choose one with safe ingredients. That’s why EveryOne Lotion with Lavender and Aloe is such a find. It is not just budget friendly, it’s also safely formulated. Amazon It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, has a fresh scent, and can be used on the face, body, and hands. The generously sized 32 oz bottle has a pump for easy application and can last for months, so leave it out on the bathroom counter for family and guests. Get it from Amazon for $13.63.
18. This cleansing oil won’t leave anything behind.
The best way to remove makeup is with cleansing oil. Kopari Coconut Cleansing Oil is a natural way to remove every single trace of makeup, from layers of foundation to stubborn waterproof mascara. Amazon Compared to other oils, coconut oil has the highest concentration of fatty acids. It has naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, and some people find it can prevent inflammation and reduce redness. It’s truly a gift from nature. Many people use an oil cleanser as part of a double-cleansing routine, but that isn’t necessary with Kopari, because it rinses clean without leaving a greasy film. It’s also vegan, non-GMO, and silicone-, gluten-, and synthetic fragrance–free. Get it from Amazon for $32.00.
19. Purify your face in luxury.
With luxurious products in distinctive bright green packaging, Tata Harper has truly made a name in clean beauty. Great for all skin types, this purifying mask helps deeply cleanse the skin while fighting the effects of aging. It can help remove buildup from environmental stressors and pollution. Amazon And the formula can help detox the face without the toxic ingredients found in many other masks; instead, it contains Lactobacillus, brown algae, prickly pear seed oil, and white clay. It is also free of GMOs, gluten, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, and oxybenzone, among other potentially harmful substances. Apply it for just 10 to 20 minutes for your best face yet. Get it from Amazon for $23.99.
20. This skin food isn’t edible.
Weleda has been making beauty products since 1926, so it seems they’re doing something right. The hero product of the line is Skin Food, which is formulated with natural ingredients your skin will eat right up. Amazon It can be used anywhere your skin needs extra love and attention. For seriously dry faces, Skin Food can double as a face mask. It also can be used as a lip balm, hair cream, hand cream, and even as a highlighter in place of traditional makeup. Skin Food is made of plant-based ingredients and contains zero synthetic preservatives, colorants, fragrances, or mineral oil. Get it from Amazon for $11.87.
21. Everything’s coming up roses with this body scrub.
Herbivore Botanicals makes simple products that feel extra luxurious. The Coco Rose Body Polish/Sugar Scrub is unlike any other body exfoliator out there. It has a unique texture that feels light and almost whipped. Amazon Packaged in a glass jar (don’t worry, it’s pretty durable)—it smells so good (naturally) you’ll think you’re showering in a field of flowers. Most important, it has no unnecessary ingredients like parabens, sulfates, artificial colors, or unnatural preservatives. An artisanal product, it’s crafted in small batches from Moroccan roses and virgin coconut oil and is made in the U.S. Get it from Amazon for $44.00.
22. C why this serum should be in your beauty routine.
We all know that vitamin C is good for our health, but not everyone is aware that it’s also useful to prevent wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. Reduction of discoloration and brightening are two more ways that vitamin C improves the look of the skin. And a serum is one of the best ways to deliver this ingredient. Amazon Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum contains many of the same ingredients as other serums, which can cost three to four times as much. Highly concentrated with 7.5 percent ascorbic acid (vitamin C), it also has hyaluronic acid to increase moisture and collagen. Get it from Amazon for $45.00.
23. These pads will “bee” a staple in your makeup bag.
We all make mistakes, particularly when it comes to applying eye makeup. A slight slip of the hand or a sneeze can lead to disaster. But cleaning up those messes doesn’t have to be an ordeal. That’s why keeping a jar of Burt’s Bees Eye Makeup Remover Pads is always a good idea.
Amazon These pads are just the right size to correct mistakes without taking off all your other makeup. And they won’t leave an oily residue or irritate the delicate eye area, like so many other makeup removers can. The leak-proof tub also makes it a smart choice for travel. Get them from Amazon for $3.67.
24. You will be TOTALEE obsessed with this hair product.
TOTALEE is a new line from Beverly Hills hairstylist Lee Rittiner, who has created five products that are useful for all hair types and made without harsh chemicals like sodium laureth sulfate, parabens, phthalates, propylene glycol, and artificial fragrances. Amazon TOTALEE WORK is a cream elixir that totally works to protect the hair from humidity while locking in moisture and creating shine. WORK is a miracle styling tool for over-processed hair, and the thick texture makes it really easy to sculpt with. With a natural fragrance that is derived from pineapple, Thai coconut, passion fruit, and macadamia, it also smells heavenly. Get it from Amazon for $29.95.
25. Say goodbye to blemishes with this super serum.
While most of us think of serums as something we use to prevent aging, they can also be used to fight acne. Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Serum will kick zits to the curb with ingredients like organic fruit acids, willow bark (which contains natural salicylic acid), CoQ10, vitamin C, aloe, and green and white tea. Amazon What the serum doesn’t contain is equally noteworthy. There are no parabens, pesticides, or phthalates. Juice Beauty’s approach to acne is quite different from other brands, because this serum both cleans and hydrates the skin. It also rebalances to reduce irritation and inflammation. Get it from Amazon for $30.00.
26. The secret to perfect beach waves.
Why do we always come back from the beach with mermaid-like hair? The secret to that texture is sea salt. But a trip to the shore or a dip in the ocean isn’t necessary to achieve this look. Amazon Verb Sea Spray gets the job done no matter what time of year it is. Verb is also far more affordable than many other sea salt sprays. The key to using the product is to spray it on wet hair and let that hair dry naturally or to use it on slightly damp hair. Verb products are cruelty-free and do not contain sulfates, parabens, or gluten. Get it from Amazon for $18.00.
27. For better hair days, dry this.
Dry shampoo has become a staple of our beauty routines, but it can be problematic for so many reasons. Most dry shampoos contain harsh chemicals. Furthermore, the aerosol cans they’re often packaged in are not just bad for the environment; we risk inhaling a bit every time we use them. Amazon However, Klorane Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk is a non-aerosol, so we don’t have to compromise our health or the environment’s. And it’s easy to use: Just spray five inches away from the hair at the roots, wait two minutes, and then brush through for clean, bouncy locks. Get it from Amazon for $20.00.
28. Smell cleaner without the chemicals.
Most of us use deodorant every day. But the sad reality is that some popular deodorants contain ingredients that are harsh and possibly toxic or carcinogenic. While many natural deodorants are ineffective or feel sticky, milk + honey Cream Deodorant stands out from the pack. Amazon It’s made in the U.S., formulated with organic and plant-based ingredients, and free from aluminum. This product also smells good (or at the very least, better than our own natural scents) with three fragrances to choose from, including Coconut Vanilla, Coconut Lemongrass, and Bay Clove & Blood Orange. Furthermore, this deodorant is cruelty-free and non-toxic. Get it from Amazon for $15.20.
29. Scrub your way to brighter skin.
ACURE Brightening Facial Scrub is a cure for dull skin at a great price for any budget. Every skin type needs to exfoliate, and this gentle but effective scrub has organic sea kelp and lemon peel to lift and remove dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Amazon One of its most noteworthy ingredients is chlorella growth factor, which is said to help stimulate the skin to create new, nourished cells. It also contains madonna lily stem cells, which can brighten the skin’s appearance. All ACURE products are vegan and sulfate-, paraben-, and cruelty-free. Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
30. Make your lips more naturally kissable with this balm.
Of all the places on our body where using the safest products really counts, the lips are one of the most important. After all, there’s a good chance we are going to lick that balm off. Amazon Furthermore, lips are extremely susceptible to dryness and irritation because they lack oil glands, which means flakiness is inevitable. So Caudalie Lip Conditioneris a real problem solver. It’s formulated from 99.5 percent natural ingredients, with grape-derived antioxidants to heal chapping, and grape oil and shea butter help deliver moisture on demand. All of this in a convenient stick. Get it from Amazon for $9.90.
31. Don’t rinse this out of your hair.
Carol’s Daughter Monoi Repairing Leave-In Conditioner is made with ingredients that repair hair the natural way with monoi, tiare gardenia flower, and coprah coconut oils. While this formula is powerful, it can still be used every day because it doesn’t have ingredients like petroleum, mineral oil, or silicone. Amazon A great thing about this product is that unlike many leave-in conditioners, it can be used on both wet and dry hair. So it’s a multitasker that you can use to freshen up your ’do or to tame those flyaways. As with every Carol’s Daughter product, the scent is a wonderful bonus. Get it from Amazon for $18.05.
32. You won’t say “oh sheet” to this mask.
Sheet masks are an easy way to treat the skin without the mess. Just use once and throw it out. Andalou Naturals Instant Brighten & Tighten Hydro Serum Facial Mask has lots of benefits packed into one tiny sheet. Amazon The hydrating serum helps repair UV damage and support the growth of both collagen and elastin. The vitamin C aids in brightening and tightening the complexion. While this treatment is beneficial at any time, it is especially useful after overexposure to the sun. Andalou Naturals products are made from naturally derived organic ingredients that are vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, fair trade, and sustainable. Get it from Amazon for $4.22.
33. You’ll love all of the uses for this natural staple that’s been around for years.
When we think of natural and non-toxic products, one of the first things that comes to mind for many of us is Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castile Soap. It’s vegan and certified 100 percent USDA organic—and the bottle is even biodegradable. Amazon But don’t underestimate the power of Dr. Bronner’s. Known for being both gentle and effective, it can be used to cleanse the body, face, and hair. And it has many other uses in the home, such as to wash the dishes, floor, and even clothing. It’s highly concentrated, so dilute it before using. Get it from Amazon for $15.99.
34. Smell good naturally.
Fragrances can contain lots of artificial ingredients, but that isn’t necessary. Pacifica Perfume Roll-On bottles are changing the perfume game by creating a cleaner product. 100% vegan and cruelty-free, they are formulated without parabens, phthalates and other harmful chemicals. Amazon The roll-on container is ideal for travel or use on the go. There are a variety of appealing scents available, including Tuscan Blood Orange, French Lilac, Sparkling Star Passionfruit, and Hawaiian Ruby Guava. Manufactured in micro batches, each fragrance can be worn alone or layered for a custom scent. Get it from Amazon for $11.39.
35. Stick to this honey cream for more youthful eyes.
Made in New Zealand, Manuka Lane Skin Firming Eye Cream does it all naturally. It helps with every under-eye need, from fine lines to dark circles and puffiness. Cruelty-free, this product contains no parabens, artificial colors, or petrocarbons. Amazon The highly concentrated formula has natural ingredients that include manuka honey, hydroxyproline, lanolin, coneflower, and vitamin E. Another great benefit of this product is the packaging. The pump allows for easy and convenient dispensing, unlike a jar, which can harbor bacteria. Proper packaging is very important for naturally derived products because they often lack preservatives. Get it from Amazon for $18.95.
36. This oil does everything.
Tea tree oil is naturally antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal. And there are some indications that it can help treat ailments such as acne, nail and foot fungus, lice, dandruff, itching, earaches, psoriasis, and eczema. Amazon Extracted from Australian Melaleuca alternifolia, Eve Hansen Tea Tree Oil is 100 percent pure and certified USDA organic. It comes with a built-in dropper so it can be dispensed easily and precisely. It’s made in the U.S. without sulfates, phthalates, or parabens, and it’s vegan and cruelty-free.At under $20 per bottle, it almost feels like there is nothing this oil can’t do. Get it from Amazon for $21.95.
37. You’ve got to hand it to this cream.
Our hands are always at work. There are endless ways the skin on our hands can become dry or cracked—from cleaning them with harsh soaps to washing the dishes. Amazon That is why regular use of hand cream is really important. Grown Alchemist Intensive Hand Cream: Persian Rose and Argan Extract has botanical extracts and antioxidants to keep your hands soft without being greasy. Packaged in a beautiful pink tube with a fresh rose scent, it’s easy to keep in your bag and look forward to using after every wash. Get it from Amazon for $24.25.
38. The results are all the proof you need to love this hair oil.
Drybar 100 Proof Treatment Oil is an absolutely game-changing product for dry, over-processed, and damaged hair. But it is really useful for all hair types for many different purposes. Amazon Use before blowing out to prevent frizz and damage, or apply it after blow-drying to style hair and tame any potential flyaways. Although this treatment is an oil, it’s still lightweight enough to be combined or layered with other products like hairspray. The safe formula is paraben-, sulfate-, phthalate-, and cruelty-free. Get it from Amazon for $48.99.
