I’m always looking for new hair, beauty and skin products to try. With so many product options out there, at all different price points, there’s always something new to try. In order to find products that work well for you, it’s a matter of trial and error.

In the last several months, I’ve started using some new hair and skin products, which have really changed the way I look and feel. I wanted to share a few of my favourites, as well as a product that I don’t “get” the hype about.

SKIN:

1. OURS by Cheryl Hickey 24 Hour Face Cream: ($14.99)

OURS is an incredible Canadian brand, founded by ET Canada’s Cheryl Hickey. She started the line after feeling as though there was a void in the natural beauty market. Everything in the line is natural and made from simple ingredients (read: no toxins or chemicals).

I’ve been using this face cream for the last 6 months or so, applying it before bed as well as before I put on my makeup. I realize it’s a 24-hour cream, so I probably don’t “need” to use it twice a day, but it’s been working for me. Because it’s a lightweight cream, it adds the perfect amount of moisture, without making my skin feel greasy. Even throughout the cold winder, my skin looked dewy and fresh.

2. Hand Chemistry ‘Extreme Hydration’ c/o DECIEM: ($20)

You may remember I talked about Hand Chemistry in the fall, when I reviewed the Intense Youth Complex hand cream. I’ve been using that cream ever since, but was curious to try out the Extreme Hydration lotion to see how it compares.

I’ve been using the Extreme Hydration for about a month now and can honestly say I love it too. The texture is quite different, but I find that it absorbs more quickly into my skin and makes my hands feel instantly smooth. I usually apply the cream before bed, and my hands still feel smooth during the day. I’m not a huge fan of how it smells, but considering how well it works, it doesn’t bother me too much.

3. Benefit ‘High Beam’ Highlighter: ($32)

This product is amazing. Seriously. There’s something about the sheen and texture of this highlighter that gives the perfect dewy finish to any makeup routine.

I never used to get compliments on my makeup or skin, but I kid you not, I’ve had random strangers approach me to tell me that I have an amazing glow to my skin. I tell everyone they need to use this product. It’s pricey, but you’re paying for quality.

HAIR:

4. Grow Gorgeous ‘Split Ends Serum’ c/o DECIEM: ($24)

I fell in love with the packaging of this product, before I even opened it. The bottle comes packaged in a perfectly designed box. The bottle itself is substantial and you apply it with an eyedropper, which is unique (and fun).

As for the serum itself, it smells incredible and is very lightweight. I have very fine, thin hair, so if a product is too thick, it tends to weigh my hair down and make it greasy. Of course, you can’t completely prevent split ends, but I definitely have fewer than I used to. Even my hair dresser noticed the last time I went to get my colour done!

5. Living Proof ‘Perfect Hair Day 5 in 1 Styling Treatment: ($32)

I’ve been going to my hair dresser for a few years now, and really trust her judgement. She is 100% honest when we discuss what styles will work best for my hair. She’s also a huge fan of the Living Proof line.

Living Proof products are not cheap, so I’ve been trying them out gradually. One of my favourites to date is the 5-in-1 styling cream. A little goes a long way, but I’ve since stopped using most of my other styling products! I used to use mousse to style my hair, but the alcohol is so drying. Because I no longer need the mousse, my hair is healthier and shiner than it’s ever been!

LAST, BUT NOT LEAST:

6. beauty blender ‘the original beautyblender’ via Birchbox: (sells for $26)

I’ve heard about the beautyblender before, but couldn’t fathom paying $26 for a sponge. A couple months ago, I was excited to see it in my Birchbox, so I could try it out.

Honestly though…I don’t “get” it! Sure, it does a nice job of blending my makeup, but I find that when I use my (clean) finger, I have more control with my makeup. Since it’s a sponge, it tends to absorb my makeup, so I feel like I have to use twice as much when I apply it with the sponge.

This is definitely a product I can do without.

What products do you swear by?