—Michelle Kim, staff writer
Krave Beauty The Beet Shield Antioxidant Day Fluid
Even though we’re spending as much time as possible indoors, it’s still important to use SPF. If you’re sitting near windows, your skin is still exposed to damaging UV rays. Even on days when I’m rolling out of bed and opening my laptop for work, if there’s one product I force myself to put on, it’s this sun protection serum from Krave Beauty. It’s not marketed as a sunscreen in the States because the United States is a bit behind Europe and Asia on what they consider to be an FDA-approved SPF, but the exact same product is marketed in South Korea, where the company is based, with an SPF 47 PA++++. It is a chemical sunscreen, and what I love about this one is that it goes on as smoothly as a serum, there’s no white cast, and if I ever wear makeup (what? you mean you DON’T do your makeup before a big night of NYT Crossword Puzzles over Zoom?), it layers very well over the top.
UZ 38°C/99°F Lip Treatment:
This product is an icon, a legend, a miracle. I’ve truly never used one like it. It’s from a Japanese cosmetic company called UZ (pronounced oo-zoo); the jewel-shaped bottle looks like a gloss to the unassuming eye, but it’s a balm treatment, and it’s the best lip balm I’ve ever used. It contains a lactic acid and skin prebiotic, so it continues to moisturize and exfoliate even after the product wears off. There’s not much I can say except to salute the chemists who formulated it.
Cancelled Plans candles
Cancelled Plans is one of my all-time favorite independent candlemakers. They have the most soothing and comforting scent blends, and their scent names are cheeky and cute: Cancelled Plans, Social Anxiety, Student Loans, 90’s Baby, French Exit, Do Not Disturb. I’ve tried Social Anxiety and 90’s Baby, and I adore them.
—Aamina Khan, social media manager
Incausa Espiritus del Ande Palo Santo Incense
Burning literally anything makes me feel like I’m resetting in a way. I love to do it in the morning and evening. Incausa Espiritus del Ande Palo Santo incense is like little bricks of palo santo sawdust. I love it because it’s everything I love about palo santo but it always smells fresh and clean and bright, and burns for a whole lot longer. It never has that burnt rubber smell the wood sticks can sometimes have. Also, it’s ethically harvested.
Dimes, Atrium, and Burning Bazaar Candles
In addition to incense, I’ve been burning a lot of candles like any good gay. It’s a nice way to feel like I’m being intentional and setting a mood for my day. Right now I’m between the Dimes candle, Atrium by Cavern New York, and Burning Bazaar by D.S. & Durga (which is sold out now but all their scents are great).
Bath Products
Another way I’ve been resetting is by taking a lot more baths. I’ve been using Olba’s Therapeutic Herbal Bath, which bubbles a little, or Dr. Singha’s Mustard Bath. They smell great, have purported health benefits, but most importantly make me feel like I’m doing something good for myself.
Fancy Tea
Fancy tea is also a very important indulgence. Commune’s signature blend hits all the right notes for me at any time of day, and Palais des Thé’s Rooibos des Vahinés is perfect in the afternoon or evening because it’s very smooth, a little sweet, and not caffeinated.
Face Masks
At night, I’ve been trying to do a face mask or some kind of treatment, whatever I feel like I need. You can’t go wrong with a pore strip; I like the generic ones from Target just fine. If I’m feeling real nasty I’ll use The Ordinary’s Peeling Solution and I’ll know I’m waking up with a new face the next day. And if I just need some extra love, I’ll use skincare queen Paula’s Choice Hydrating Treatment Mask. It’s rich and buttery and decadent.
