My skin is extremely sensitive, and I mean “I’m allergic to my own sweat” sensitive. Naturally, I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with all things skin care and makeup. Growing up, I thought I was bound to a fragrance-free life, or that I couldn’t really have much fun with makeup because I had to focus on keeping my skin from flaring up in the first place. After nine years as a shopping editor, learning, testing, and having the privilege of access to the best products and experts in the business, I’m happy to report that I’ve found what works best for my sensitive skin, even after developing hormonal acne in my late 20s.

My drugstore staples, like Aquaphor, Avène, e.l.f., and PanOxyl, are still very much front and center, but I’ve discovered that as long as my base routine is strong, I can play around with scents and makeup. Granted, since my beauty upbringing was pretty simple, I’m still fairly low-maintenance. Or, as we like to call it at The Cut, “high maintenance, low maintenance,” which basically translates to knowing where to drop your $$$ so you can go about your days as stress-free as possible. My skin (and bank account) appreciates that.

But especially my hair. After chopping off my long locks, I’ve learned that investing in the best shampoos, leave-in conditioners, oils, and hair tools makes my mornings way easier—and it pays off in the long run.


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