So far, 2021 has been some new mixed with a bit of old. We have a new administration in office(yesterday!) and with that will come new policies and a new direction for our country. However, COVID is still as prevalent as ever so I hope everyone is still social distancing, washing your hands and for pete’s sake, wear a mask. I received some cute ones from Athleta for Christmas if you need a new one (and some are on sale!). Also, I’m hearing that Tootsies just received lots of new ones from Debra Linse.
As we continue to navigate this “new normal”, I am saddened by the continued closing of businesses, some big but mostly small shops. It is so hard for these independent business owners to stay afloat so I have personally made the commitment to continue to shop small as much as I can. Yes, sometimes, it can be more expensive, but I want my dollar to make an impact to help keep these businesses open so we can all make it past these trying times.
The beauty industry is a very crowded place where the brands with the most money (or celeb status) usually drown out the little guys. In my searches, I have found some AMAZING brands and products that I think you should give a try in an effort to shop small.
Tinted Moisturizer
Now we all know that Laura Mercier’s Tinted Moisturizer is the holy grail when it comes to the category. I was working at Mercier when this launched and it truly set the industry on fire – what a time that was! I know how loyal customers of this product are but if you are looking to shop small, my favorite product is from Iris and Romeo called Best Skin Days. Actually, since I have tried it, I haven’t gone back to my Mercier one (blasphemy, I know!). The Best Skin Days is a 5-in-1 serum, moisturizer, sheer coverage, SPF 25 and blue light/pollution protector, which I need with all of my added screen time these days. It gives me just enough coverage and leaves a dewy glow, making my skin look radiant and healthy.
Lipstick
You all know by now that I live in my Tom Ford Cherry Lush lipstick and it will forever be a staple in my makeup bag. I have found a great new, young brand out of Dallas that I am loving just as much! Madame Gabriela’s lipstick in Paris is now in constant rotation (on my Zoom calls at least). It is a clean brand, infused with Manuka Honey, and comes in a beautiful, sleek aluminum tube. They do have 2 other colors in case red isn’t your thing and they all glide on beautifully and have some incredible staying power.
Moisturizer
I am a huge fan of the Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream. It is lightweight, cooling when you apply it, gives just the right amount of hydration…I can’t say enough good things about it. However, I have found another moisturizer that I am loving just as much from a dermatologist-founded brand. Dr. Rose Ingleton’s Signature Moisturizer gives me all the same feels – perfect hydration but also comes packed with peptides, Vitamins C & B3 and ceramides to help tackle those fine lines.
I am still on the hunt for more indie brands to fall in love with (its only January after all) so this is Part 1 of the story. I may have a new peel for you all to try….I’m loving it so far so stay tuned!
Please, leave a comment below to let me know what small brands you have discovered!
by Chelsi Oestreich
