January… the Monday of the year. Also the time when everything grows a bit dull and requires a little something extra. Finding solutions to über dry skin is an on-going battle. But I also find that little discoveries in the beauty department is just what this month needs. It’s the little things that can bring needed excitement to an otherwise ho hum month. Here are some recent favorites that I’ve been loving so far this year…

Clockwise from top right:

African Botanics Baobab Clay Oxygenating Cleanser: The first time I used this face wash it was right before I sat in a makeup artists chair for a photo shoot. She immediately complimented me on my skin and I’m convinced it was a testament to this cleanser. It somehow leaves my skin feeling crazy soft and perfectly exfoliated.

Nude Skincare Purifying Deep Cleansing Mask: I’ve been using this mask on a weekly basis to help with problem areas and it quickly turns my skin around without drying it out.

Skin Inc. Deep Sea Hydrating Face Mask: For days that I wake up feeling horribly dry (the worst!) I put this mask on, make myself a cup of coffee, feed Elin breakfast and rinse it off in the shower. It turns my skin right around for the day.

Diptyque Lotion (only available in Europe, similar): Two years ago I stayed at the Mandarin Oriental in Paris and smuggled home the Diptyque soap and lotion from my bathroom. The scent was incredible and I’m pretty sure they pumped it throughout the whole place. I came home and opened my suitcase and was even more in love with it. When I ran out I went to the closest Diptyque store only to discover that the body line (and amazing scent) was only available in Europe. What’s a girl to do? Call Paris and make a very large order. It was like Christmas when the package arrived.

Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Face Mist: One of the biggest luxuries of the day, spritzing this on my face. I keep it in my car so I always have it handy.

Jo Malone Vitamin E Lip Conditioner: Chapped lips is the worst! This lip conditioner has become a favorite.

Aimee Song x Formula X nail polish: The prettiest nude/pink I’ve had on my toes and hands for the past couple of weeks. All through November and December I sported a black or deep red. The subtle, soft shade is just what the new year needed.

Honest Beauty Cream Blush: I’ve been finding blush to be just what my pale skin needs on a cold winter day. Powders feel to dry so a cream based color has been the ticket.

Nars Light Reflecting Powder: There’s a reason why this one is considered a “Nars cult favorite.” A touch of this is like magic. It smoothes skin, plays tricks with the light to make your skin look flawless.