The new £6 sleep mask that’s saved my dry winter skin…plus 4 other budget beauty buys I use to the very last drop
February sounds more promising than January. But let’s be honest, it isn’t really.
The weather is mostly to blame. It’s cold. Rainy. Snowy even. With no mulled wine or twinkly lights and promise of presents to soften the blow. And when the skies are clear, the light is mainly the dull and dreary kind that saps every ounce of youth from your complexion. Plus, it’s likely that you’re still enduring some new year ‘elimination’ diet or worse, given up on it completely.
But, perhaps the most draining part about February (other than Brexit) is the financial hangover. The credit card bills are in and you’re beginning to regret buying Jenny next door that bottle of sherry. As well as a mountain of other now forgotten excesses enjoyed during the festive period. Which is why a pampering pick-me-up that’s darn good value for money is just the thing everyone needs right now. At least I do. These are my six best-loved budget buys to ease that February feeling.
M&S The Formula Hydrating Face Mask, £14
If your skin is anything like mine is right now - as dehydrated as a dried Shitake mushroom - then you will thank me for this new skincare gem. A hydrating blend of hyaluronic acid and rose water, this jelly mask is a light, refreshing way to hydrate skin without the oil-slick appearance of some of the richer masks. Additionally, tasmanian pepper berry extract soothes inflammation and redness making it gentle enough for sensitive skin.
L’Oreal Elnett Heat Protect Styling Spray in Smooth Blow £5.99
It doesn’t look like much. But don’t mistake this frizz tamer for another boring heat protection spray. In fact, even with access to the Telegraph beauty desk’s abundant display of fancy new hair products to try, I have yet to find better value for money. Sprayed onto damp hair before blow-drying, this seals in moisture, protecting hair from heat damage up to 230 degrees. What you really need to know is that you’ll end up with satin smooth hair that’s humidity proof for up to three days. I do not feel my best self without it.
Glossier Generation G Lipstick in Like, £14
It goes without saying that a swipe of lipstick brightens up more than just your lips. So, armour up with this everyday pink. I haven’t found a more wearable pink than this. A dialed down berry shade in a soft matte finish that’s punchy enough to lighten your mood without being offensively so, I also appreciate the size, which is petite enough to slip into your pocket unnoticed.
Avon Golden Mushroom Sleep Mask £6
It’s winter. You can never have enough help when it comes to protecting and nourishing skin. The trio of mushroom extract in this smart mask gives skin a boost of Vitamin D, selenium and antioxidants to protect against environmental damage overnight. A creamy consistency, it sinks into skin almost immediately - vital if you want to avoid a greasy pillowcase. Available from 22nd of February, it’s well worth the wait.
Essie Big Spender Nail Polish £7.99
I have long been of the opinion that having perennially manicured nails is the sign of a woman in control. While I’m usually a fond of pushing red as the best classic bright, lately I’m finding pinky/purple shades (so long as they have minimal sparkle) are having a moment and look decidedly chic and expensive looking, especially against an otherwise minimal makeup application. If you have the patience, paint toes too. No one will but you will benefit, but looking down upon a brightly coloured pedicure in the shower can be known to crack a smile.
