Moisturizing Solutions From Head To Toe

Whether it's the natural consequence of getting older or of the harsh winter weather, these days my hair and skin tend to dry out easily. I've become a conditioner, lotion, and lip balm fiend to counteract it. "Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize" is an oft-uttered tenet when it comes to beauty basics. Whether or not regular moisture really is the secret to longlasting beauty, it's worth the trouble if it prevents dry frizzy hair, itchy skin, and a sallow complexion in the short run.

Effective products can range from cheap thrills to mid-market and high-end products, so finding something that works doesn't have to cost a fortune. My routine combines a mix of drugstore deals as well as more luxe options from BeautyMark.

Hair

Most days I'm content to use Pantene Pro V 2 in 1 in the "frizzy to smooth" formula, work a nickel-sized dollop of Frederic Fekkai COIFF Perfecteur Anti-Frizz Silkening Creme (approx. $35 at Shoppers Drug Mart) into towel-dried hair, and call it a day. But winter calls for more moisture, hence the addition of Dove Daily Moisture Therapy conditioner to the shower routine. This lightweight conditioner softens hair without weighing it down or leaving residue behind. After shampooing with Pantene, I work the Dove conditioner into the ends and let it sit in my hair for the duration of my shower, rinsing it off at the very end. The conditioner has more time to work its magic this way.



Lips

I have no loyalties when it comes to lip balm brands and like keeping one on my dresser, in my purse, on my desk...anywhere handy, in fact. The one in my purse is currently Deserving Thyme lip care balm with SPF 15 ($7). It soothes dry lips and has SPF, making it the perfect lip balm to wear when out and about. Its smooth non-greasy feel also makes it a great lip primer under lipstick. At work, I keep Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil in a desk drawer. Out of the three lip balms I'm using currently, Nivea's Essential lip balm has the heaviest, creamiest consistency, making it an ideal option for applying at night before bed.



Face

My Consonant Body 30 day skincare challenge may be over, but I am still using and loving the products I got to test courtesy of BeautyMark. The Ultra Moisturizing Organic Face Cream ($54) is suitable for daytime and nighttime use; it moisturizes without clogging pores or causing breakouts. Meanwhile, the nighttime Ultra Moisturizing Organic Eye Cream ($36) and daytime Ultra Firming Organic Eye Cream ($36) take care of the delicate eye area around the clock.



Body

London Drugs aloe vera moisture lotion is surprisingly good for a drugstore find and one from the store brand at that; it's just a good basic body lotion that keeps skin soft all day long. My feet, however, have gotten used to a more luxurious product in the form of Principessa Beauty Pretty Piede foot balm ($18). This Canadian line is a Vancouver favourite for its delicious scents, pretty packaging, and emphasis on using natural ingredients. The foot balm's sugary gourmand fragrance is pleasant and not at all overpowering, while its formula is non-greasy and fast-absorbing. It'll probably be a favourite well into spring and summer when pedicure season is upon us. UPDATED TO ADD: BeautyMark owner Marc Brunet reminded me on Twitter that the Pretty Piede foot balm is great for rough knees and elbows too.



What are you using to moisturize these days? Are there any products that you swear by?