Hi Sugarplum!

Let’s Chat | Favorite Beauty Products & Procedures

Happy almost-weekend, friends! Don’t you love the anticipation Thursday holds? Thank you for the encouragement on yesterday’s {One Room Challenge} update…hopefully there’s real progress this weekend and I’ll have more pretty to report on next week! Some of you asked questions in the comments, so be sure to check back there for a response.

Today we’re switching gears and chatting about beauty routines and favorite beauty products. I’m no expert, nor have I tried every product on the market…not even close…but I do have a handful of products that I reach for time and again. The kind of products I’m constantly stocking up on, for fear of them selling out or being discontinued. You know, the stuff you tell your best friends about!

I’m no spring-chicken anymore, and with each year that passes, I see the evidence of it on my face, and even parts of my body. I mean, I knew I’d see lines around my eyes, but saggy skin on my knees and neck?! Now that’s just rude!

And as much as I’d like to, especially given I splash my face across the internets every week, I don’t photoshop or retouch my images (beyond normal color-correcting and editing). Sure I miss the taut skin of my youth, but I wouldn’t trade it for the self-confidence and body-security I’ve gained with age.

I realize every birthday is a blessing, and I pray I have 50 more, but I’ll still fight to look my very best at each new age. Some of it will be genetic (which I have going for me…have you seen my mom?!?), some is lifestyle, and the rest is products!

Hi Sugarplum | Best Beauty Products

Hi Sugarplum | Best Beauty Products
Dress | Clutch (similar) | Ring | Shoes (similar here & here)
Hi Sugarplum | Best Beauty Products
Dress | Clutch (similar) | Bracelet | Shoes (similar here & here)

I’ve been asked repeatedly for my beauty, makeup, and fitness routines…but I’ve hesitated because I don’t think I do anything ground-breaking or original. Nor do I have any real authority or skill in those areas. But I know what I like, and what works for me…and I love finding new products and tips from you guys, as well…so let’s chat about our favorites!

Hi Sugarplum | Best of Beauty

Electronic Toothbrush  //  I realize it’s a little strange to include a toothbrush as a favorite beauty product, but I recently switched to an electric toothbrush and am shocked by what a difference it’s made! #wherehaveIbeen My teeth are now dentist-clean everyday, and my smile is whiter and brighter. 
Trader Joe’s All-in-One Facial Cleanser  //  This mild cleanser has a soft, full lather, yet still somehow leaves my skin feeling exfoliated, but not tight. I literally crave washing my face every night.
Sally Hanson Miracle Gel  //  I don’t have the time (or budget) for weekly manicures, especially since this polish lasts even longer! The top coat works great with my regular polishes, too, and it makes an extra-shiny finish. (Sidenote: I do wear my nails short.)
It! Cosmetic CC Cream + SPF  //  I remember when BB creams came out, and were all the rage. I tried a few and didn’t see what the fuss was about. Until I tried this one, and I’m completely obsessed. If you try no other product on this list, try this one. It doubles as my daily moisturizer, sunscreen, and foundation…one little pump color-corrects and brightens (dare I say, illuminates!) my entire face. Even better, it feels good, doesn’t crease or crack, looks fresh all day, and even has anti-aging stuff in it! And isn’t crazy-expensive! I’ve become so obsessed with it, I’m slowly converting all my makeup to this brand.
RemeLift Eye Gel  //  I’ve not used fillers, and only tried injectibles a handful of times…I think a certain amount of aging is natural, and if you fight it too hard, you end up looking older. But this product is pure genius…basically, it’s Botox-in-a-bottle! It’s a temporary gel that smooths and relaxes all the fine lines, but washes off with water! I mix it with some moisturizer and apply around, and between, my eyes for an instant refresher. It’s a little pricey, but I’ve had the same bottle for 4 months, and it’s still over half-full (I don’t use it daily).
Batiste Dry Shampoo  //  If you’ve been reading this blog for awhile, you know I’m not a frequent hair-washer…probably every 3 days, 4 if I’m lazy pushing it. But I do have to freshen it up daily, and dry shampoo is my savior. I used to be a huge fan of Psssst, but they changed their formula, and it’s not as good. Dove makes a great option, too. What I love most about the Batiste dry shampoo, is the tinted versions for blonde (or brunette) hair…so I get a little root coverage, too!
Suave Moroccan Infusion Body Lotion  //  You may have noticed, but products don’t make my ‘favorites list’ just because they feel good…but also because they make me look better! And this lotion makes my skin look 10 times better and more radiant, but not oily. I use it every night after I bathe, and again on exposed body parts after getting dressed. It’s almost like a finishing cream for your body.
L’Occitane Créme Divine  //  Truth be told, I was originally gifted with this cream last year. I’d been a long-time fan of their hand cream, but it’s beyond my comfort zone to spend this on a face cream. Except now I’m completely obsessed, addicted and buying it on my own…it truly is ‘divine.’
It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product  //  While I may not wash my hair daily, it does take a lot of abuse from heating tools (see my hair tutorial here). This leave-in spray really is miraculous…it also smells like heaven and doesn’t weigh down my hair or make it limp. I use it on damp hair, then style as usual (no other products until my hair is dry).
That covers it for my favorite products, now let’s chat about my (limited) experiences with spa procedures (the non-invasive, non-surgical kind).
PhotoFacial  //  This laser treatment was so painful I can barely talk about it! Seriously, the tech said it would feel like ‘a light rubber band snap.’ Well maybe if that rubber band is first dipped in acid, then lit on fire! The upside is it turned most of my brown spots into little scabs, which flaked off about a week later, leaving my skin almost spot-free. It requires a series of treatments to get the full-effect, but there’s no way I can go through that again! #weenie
HydroFacial  //  A friend told me about this treatment, and after just one visit, I’m already a huge fan! It’s not a traditional facial, in that they rub some serums and potions, pop a few uglies, and send you on your way. This is a non-painful, totally relaxing, resurfacing treatment that cleans, exfoliates, extracts, and hydrates your skin, then infuses it with a bunch of good anti-aging stuff. You walk out with no redness, and immediate improvement…and not just temporary! It seriously sucks every pore clean and closes them up, almost like hitting the reset button on your face. Especially after a Summer of sweat, salt water and sunscreen! I’ve read about it in several magazines, and apparently celebrities get HydroFacials before big events. 
(Sidenote: For you Dallas girls, I can’t recommend Evanesque enough! It’s a small little boutique spa, with fair prices and a non-intimidating environment. When I told them I was going to brag about their HydroFacial, she offered you lucky ducks 20% off!! Just mention Hi Sugarplum when you call. #yourewelcome)

Now it’s your turn…let’s chat about your must-have, die-without, swear-they’re-the-best, price-be-damned beauty products, tips, and procedures! I’m dying to give laser hair removal a whirl, but so nervous after my response to the PhotoFacial!

I shared a few more of my favorite hair products in this post, but if you want, we can do this again with favorite make-up and more hair products!?! What do you think?

P.S. If you like these more personal posts, you can find more at the bottom of this page.

*photos by mary summers






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  1. Heather{Our Life In a Click} says: October 22, 2015 at 12:04 pm

    Yes more, please! I love finding out about products that I've never heard of! Off to investigate.

    Reply
  2. Kelly says: October 22, 2015 at 12:35 pm

    Thanks for the info. I need to refocus on my skin

    Reply
  3. Caits says: October 22, 2015 at 1:06 pm

    I super love the skin care products from It Works. THey have an exfoliating peel that is so awesome and makes you look way younger without the high price tag or pain. All plant based ingredients. SO AMAZING!!! Cleanser is my favorite. http://www.caitlinworks.com

    Reply
  4. Erin @ Crafts and Sutch says: October 22, 2015 at 1:07 pm

    We have the same taste in beauty products! I love IT Cosmetics…especially their BB Cream. I also love the pressed powder foundation when I want a more matte look and their Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer. You can get the line for a really fantastic price on QVC. I know that makes me sound like I'm about 90, but they have great specials and my mom is kind of a QVC addict. 🙂

    My favorite face wash is Purity by Philosophy. It's so creamy and I always feel like it gets all of my makeup off. My favorite mascara is Mally Instant Impact Mascara. I LOVE it! I have long lashes naturally, but this mascara makes them look like false lashes! It's fantastic. You can pick it up at Ulta or QVC. 🙂

    I just started using the Batiste dry shampoo and I'm a convert, and I love the It's a 10 leave in conditioner. Did you know they make a version for blondies? It's great! 🙂

    Reply
  5. Julie Guerrero says: October 22, 2015 at 1:20 pm

    I love this! Keep them coming!

    Reply
  6. Jillian says: October 22, 2015 at 1:27 pm

    i want to try that leave in product! xo jillian – cornflake dreams

    Reply
  7. Momma says: October 22, 2015 at 1:35 pm

    I love Neutrogena Ultra Gentle creamy formula cleanser with my Honest Beauty konjac sponge. Together they clean and exfoliate my skin without leaving me raw or tight feeling. Then I top things off with Garnier anti-aging BB cream mixed with Olay sensitive skin complete all day moisture lotion. The BB cream alone is a little thick and cakey, but mixed with the Olay lotion, makes my skin dewy and radiant. Love it!

    Reply
  8. Mrs. Limestone says: October 22, 2015 at 2:18 pm

    Thanks for this..ill be trying some of your cremes.

    But if you like the Sally Hansen, I would definitely suggest the CND Vinylux. I've tried them both and the CND lasts about twice as long for me without any additional time putting it on. You can't buy it as easily at a drug store but its sold on amazon and other beauty supply places and well worth the $6.

    Reply
  9. V @ X-tremely V says: October 22, 2015 at 2:22 pm

    I have used certain products for years, but have noticed my skin changing with age and now the daily use of well water. Thank you for this post! Eager to try something new 🙂

    And holy smokes your mom looks young! Great genes!

    Reply
  10. the undomesticated wife says: October 22, 2015 at 2:34 pm

    I love IT cosmetics, but I use their CC cream. It's wonderful. I've tried their Bye Bye Under Eye cream for my genetic dark eye circles, but I'm still on the fence about that one.

    My favorite moisturizer can be found at Target: Say Yet To brand, and I get the blueberry version. I'm about to turn 42 and people always tell me I look like I'm in my early to mid 30s.

    Other than that, I use pretty basic stuff. I've tried both pricey and inexpensive, and honestly, I think they all work the same. I think as long as you use a moisturizer every day – any moisturizer – you'll help your face quite a lot in the long run. I've been moisturizing since I was a teenager. 🙂

    Reply
  11. Queen In Between says: October 22, 2015 at 2:46 pm

    Totally going to try the BB cream. What I notice helps the most is just actually being consistent…I get lazy and stop taking my makeup off at night and stop drinking enough water and my skin instantly starts looking blah. It's crazy because we can be so hard on ourselves seeing every single line in pictures, etc but I can honestly say that is typically not the first thing I notice about others. I'm more drawn to their personality and their heart.

    Reply
  12. Erin Robison says: October 22, 2015 at 3:34 pm

    Hi Cassie – I started doing Laser Hair Removal over a year ago on my arms. I've always been self conscious about how hairy they are and my mom offered to pay for treatment if I found a groupon or something. After lots of research and the daunting prices of the big name stores, I found a gal in Houston who has her own business, is fully trained and wonderful. It's been such a great experience, I've moved on to other areas, at my own expense. I can't wait to not have to shave my legs anymore!! It is painful, some areas more than others, but not like your photofacial experience. I'm a weenie too, but am able to manage these treatments. Don't spend $1000 to do an area, research and find someone qualified to do a great job for a fraction of the price. I pay as little as $125 for a small area treatment to $100 a session for a large one – 6 sessions is average. I will say that light, thin hairs will not respond to treatment – but those coarse dark hairs definitely will! If your readers are in Houston, I definitely recommend Carrie at Allure Laser Studio!

    Reply
  13. Theresa says: October 22, 2015 at 4:01 pm

    Love reading through these! I used your hair tutorial & have received MANY compliments, so now it's time to focus on skin & makeup 😀

    Reply
  14. Megan // Honey We're Home says: October 22, 2015 at 4:10 pm

    You are gorgeous mama- at any age! Your young spirit always shines through- despite the insane amount of Mexican food you consume! If you weren't my best girl, I'd hate you!! I use the It's a 10 also, it's an awesome detangler for my bleached hair that's a total rat's nest when I get out of the shower!

    Reply
  15. My Life as A Plate says: October 22, 2015 at 4:35 pm

    I need to try that dry shampoo, I have heard so many great things about it.

    Reply
  16. Judy Clark says: October 22, 2015 at 5:32 pm

    Cassie, you know that you are one of my favorites. I told Rhoda (Ms. Southern Hospitality) that the other day. You and Your Mama are gorgeous. Texas and GA girls, there is something about living in that part of the country that keeps us glowing and youthful. I had not seen the Mother's day post. I did see the picture of your Mother at the container store and wanted to find out where she got her jeans. I feel that as a seasoned gal those would look okay on me. Can't wait to see your LR.

    Reply
  17. Lindsay says: October 22, 2015 at 6:07 pm

    I've been wanting to change up my beauty routine, so this post comes at the perfect time! I especially want to try your facial cleanser.

    I've done laser hair removal, and you're right to be nervous about it. Like your facial, I was told it would feel like a rubber band snap. My best description would be if pins were stuck through the rubber band before it was snapped. But, it's quick (depending on where you're doing it, don't dive in thinking you're going to do your legs until you've tried a smaller area). It's painful, but over in just a few minutes.

    Reply
  18. isntthatgrand says: October 22, 2015 at 6:17 pm

    I love Batiste too! They often have it at TJ Maxx/Marshalls and when they do, I stockpile it. 3 cheers for minimal hair washing!

    Welcome to the electric toothbrush bandwagon! I remember saying the same thing about the dentist-clean to my friend when I first got one. Now that you're on the wagon, you'll have to upgrade to the Sonicare (they have deals on them at Costco). They're spendy, but really take the clean to a whole new level.

    Reply
  19. [email protected] says: October 22, 2015 at 6:51 pm

    I'll definitely be giving the dry shampoo and BB cream a try. My new favorite facial moisturizer is Emu Bliss emu oil. I've been using it at night for about a year and my skin is smoother and has fewer fine lines than ever. I think between that and adding the BB cream in the morning my face will be very happy.

    Reply
  20. joen says: October 22, 2015 at 7:05 pm

    I just ordered the It CC Cream from QVC can't wait to get it!!! I use IT powder foundation and it is fantastic great coverage no cakin it feels like silk – there mascara is great too! I treated myself to a Clairsonic last year and love it. Urban Decay eyeshadow primer keeps your eyeshadow on all day – it's a must! Clinique Take the Day Off is my eye makeup remover of choice and I couldn't live without this stuff!! I also try to get a professional facial when the seasons change – I find it so relaxing its a special treat! I have an electric tooth brush that I think is pretty awesome too!

    Reply
  21. Nicole Hokenstad says: October 22, 2015 at 7:31 pm

    I wish it was the weekend for us. Thursday is our Sunday. I have found a few products I adore lately, Hempz lotion (sounds weird, works amazingly), Tresemme smooth and silky shampoo and conditioner among others. Granted, I'm only 26 and have a long way to go as far as testing and I don't have the budget to try the good stuff. I'm glad to know about it's a ten!! Been eyeing it for years!!

    Reply
  22. Nicole Hokenstad says: October 22, 2015 at 7:35 pm

    I wish it was the weekend for us. Thursday is our Sunday. I have found a few products I adore lately, Hempz lotion (sounds weird, works amazingly), Tresemme smooth and silky shampoo and conditioner among others. Granted, I'm only 26 and have a long way to go as far as testing and I don't have the budget to try the good stuff. I'm glad to know about it's a ten!! Been eyeing it for years!!

    Reply
  23. Holly Martinez says: October 22, 2015 at 7:51 pm

    I did laser hair removal *down there*. It hurts like a mother for the few seconds they do it, but I would do it over again (they got me a handy little prescription bottle of numbing cream = #BFFs). Love love love the results! My sis-in-law got her arms and legs done and they are fabulous! You won't regret it. It's worth the cash and few moments of pain. I got mine done right here in the metroplex at Ideal Image, but there are a lot of good places. I could go on, but that's probably more than you wanted to know. Xo.

    Reply
  24. Kathy Olson says: October 23, 2015 at 12:04 pm

    I loved all your tips.
    I'm always struck by how radiant you are. I think happiness is the key:)

    Reply
  25. Sarah says: October 23, 2015 at 1:06 pm

    Thanks! I loved this post! I'm heading to Ulta NOW to get that CC cream!

    Reply
  26. Ashley N says: October 23, 2015 at 1:50 pm

    Just ordered my It BB Cream and the Its a 10! Can't wait to try them all out!!

    Reply
  27. Joseph Main says: October 23, 2015 at 2:15 pm

    Few days ago, only I found out that my hair is losing its normal sheen and luster. Tried out many products but didn't get fruitful results. While surfing for the solutions, I came across your blog. I invested in some products hair care products which delivered the exact results i wanted. Really amazing product at an affordable rate.

    Reply
  28. Katie says: October 23, 2015 at 7:26 pm

    Love these posts! I just added the Batiste dry shampoo and the It's a 10 product to my Amazon cart, can't wait to try them… thank you!! My recent beauty discovery has been Rodan & Fields (the same dermatologists that created Proactiv) anti-aging skincare products. My favorites include the Redefine regimen (including the amazing eye cream!) and Unblemish. It took a couple of decades, but I finally have a skin regimen that works! https://kdenne.myrandf.biz/Shop

    Reply
  29. Cyndi says: October 23, 2015 at 9:35 pm

    Thanks for choosing RemeLift for a fav! It's on sale for $59 until the end of the year. Totally worth it and it lasts a long time!

    Reply
  30. MikeAnita Rudzinski says: October 23, 2015 at 10:37 pm

    Love the post. Yes would love more. I have recently found your blog and I love it. I turn 62 tomorrow and love your youthfulness but find I like all your stuff!!!

    Reply
  31. MN Girl says: October 24, 2015 at 12:51 am

    I am pretty darn low maintenance (my husband might disagree 😉) and if I can run in to target and grab it, it's probably not in my routine. My favorite mascara is Cover Girl Lash Blast Fusion water resistant formula. It's great from keeping mascara smudge off my brow bone without the hassle of waterproof mascara removal. My new favorite hair product is Original Sprout Curl Calmer. It is so multipurpose! I have curly hair and it adds shine, softness and frizzy control.

    Reply
  32. mwimp says: October 25, 2015 at 4:04 pm

    some of my favs:
    1) briogeo rosarco milk (hair leave in – luv luv luv the way it makes my hair feel)
    2)girl meets pearl by benefit – gibe u that dewy look
    3) Clairol purple shampoo – keeps my hair from getting brassy – best one I've tried

    Reply
  33. The Stantons says: October 26, 2015 at 2:10 am

    I love this post! Please keep them coming! I bought the lotion this afternoon.

    Reply
  34. Unknown says: October 28, 2015 at 5:56 am

    I'm cracking up over the saggy neck skin and knees. I just said to a friend, while watching cheerleaders at a football game, that I never knew I would have knee envy! I turn 40 on 11/12 this year and couldn't agree more with your "no spring chicken" post. Love your style all the way around. Keep rock'n it.

    Reply
  35. Lisa Richards says: October 28, 2015 at 6:00 am

    I'm cracking up over the saggy neck skin and knees. I just said to a friend, while watching cheerleaders at a football game, that I never knew I would have knee envy! I turn 40 on 11/12 this year and couldn't agree more with your "no spring chicken" post. Love your style all the way around. Keep rock'n it.

    Reply
  36. LW says: July 9, 2018 at 3:28 pm

    I just wanted to add, I did laser hair removal for my legs & bikini area. Did you know it is NOT permanent!! It did give me about 4~5 yrs of not having to shave but once month to once a week…Electrolysis is the ONLY permanent hair removal & it removes ALL hair, blonde, brown, black or gray!!! As a result of hormones(radical hysterectomy @ 36 & now 53, I’ve taken Biodentical Hormones since 36 but now, some black hairs popped up on my face!! The lady who did my laser hair removal & my GYN told me to go see a lady I see in Rockwall for Electrolysis, it will never ever grow back!!! YAY!! Don’t do lasar, hurts soooo bad & I wasted $$$$, now I’m getting the few facial hairs gone & doing my bikini & legs again but very very thankful this is it!!!

    Reply
  37. Anita Craig says: June 30, 2021 at 4:24 pm

    Thank you so much for leaving the link for your clothes! I LOVE IT!! So many times I’ve wanted a particular piece and NEVER could find it, and finally give up…. SO THANK YOU!!!

    Reply
    • Cassie says: July 1, 2021 at 3:05 pm

      Well goodness, you’re welcome, Anita! This post is so old, I’m surprised any of these links are still in stock, ha!! xo, C

      Reply

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