Top Product Picks of Summer

Listen, I am a products junkie. Really, I think I have a problem, ya'll. I LOVE trying out new types of make-up, skin care items, hair products...you name it.

So I'm getting asked pretty frequently by my girlfriends (and even some guys friends ; ) which products are my fave this summer, since I've tried and tested them all. And I thought I'd let you in on what I cannot live without at the moment.

Well, I guess I could technically live without them, but it wouldn't be pretty! Ha!

1. Aveeno Positively Radient Daily Cleansing Pads - $8.97 - Walmart, Target or other drug stores. These puppies can remove anything; dirt, makeup and even waterproof mascara. Best of all, they smell great and are cheap!

2. Estee Lauder Hydra Bright Skin-Tone Perfecting Moisterizer Creme- $40.00 -Dillards. This stuff may be a little on the higher price end, but it lasts forever and honestly does just what it says; improves skin's tone. I've been using this for a long time (over a year) and really can tell it has helped the reddness in my skin. It's also great for freckle faces like myself and smells so clean and fresh.

3. Bath and Body Works Coconut Lime Verbena Body Lotion - $10.50 - Bath and Body Works. This lotion and scent has been around for a while and there's a reason. It is the perfect scent for summer; light and delicious. It's like a fruity drink for your skin. It also moisterizes better than any other brand on the market, for reals.
4. MAC Prep and Prime Translucent Powder - $21.00 - Dillards or other fine retailers. A silky finishing powder that provides an invisible way to set makeup. Reduces shine while optically minimizing the look of pores, lines, imperfections. Available in one universal colour that suits all shades. Wear over makeup or on bare, moisturized skin.

5. Ardell Individual False Eyelashes - $3.50 - Walmart, Target or other drug stores. Ok, note to the wise: Do not use more than 3 per eye unless you want to look like Tammy Faye Baker. But used sparingly, these puppies can make your eyes pop. It takes a bit of practice, but with time, you'll be a pro. Add a couple to the outer corners of your eyelids and line with black liner for super fiesty make-up look.

6. Mary Kay Mineral Cheek Color in "Sparkling Cidar" - $10.00 - Mary Kay Costmetics. Mary Kay's semi-new mineral cheek color in Sparkling Cidar is universally flattering for just about any skin tone; olive, pale, golden and even dark skin. Just brush a bit on top of bronzer for a sun-kissed glow.

7. OPI South Beach Nail Color Collection in "Party In My Cabana" - $7.50 - opi.com or any fine salon. This color is so fresh for a mani or pedi this summer. Nuff said.

8. John Frieda Root Awakening Shampoo and Conditioner - $6.70 - Walmart. This new shampoo from our friends at John Frieda is safe for color-treated hair and smells amazingly fresh. It made my colored hair feel so soft and really helped battle the Arkansas humidity the next day. Shine city!

I really do use and love these products and I hope you do too! We all deserve a little beauty TLC now and then.

P.S.- Oh, by the way, I have learned that the technical hairstylist name for my new hair color is "bronde", which I'm assuming is a blonde/brown hybrid. Apparently people like Jen Aniston and Gisele Bunchen are also examples of "brondes". That would explain why people have been mistaking me for Gisele all day long ; )