I'm a Wellness-Obsessed Beauty Editor—30 Items I Tell All My Friends to Buy
I'm a beauty editor, which means I love skincare, makeup, and haircare products. I mean it, too—researching, testing, and curating beauty products is my passion. But in the words of Walt Whitman, I contain multitudes, and beauty isn't my only passion. I love reading. I love traveling. I love my dog. And I love health and wellness, too.
In my mid-20s, I was diagnosed with PCOS and endometriosis. Pair that with a decade-long struggle with anxiety, and navigating my health—not to mention the monstrous wellness industry—felt incredibly overwhelming. I started slow, and after many years of trial and error, I've found what works. In fact, I've created a long list of wellness essentials that make me feel my best.
When I say "essentials," I simply mean that these products elevate my experience; it might not be the same for others. Still, in the spirit of sharing, I thought I'd disclose the entire list in the hopes it can help someone on their own wellness journey. Ahead, see 30 items I love and recommend to all of my friends.
These little pouches contain highly absorbable liposomal vitamin C to boost the immune system and bring a glow to the skin. Simply rip off the top and squeeze it into your mouth. They have a zingy citrus flavor. I love packing these in my carry-on to keep me healthy while traveling.
These ankle and wrist weights have become a staple in my at-home Pilates routine.
This super-lightweight foam mat folds instead of rolling up. That means I can slide it under my bed or behind the chair in my bedroom for easy, out-of-the-way storage. Plus, it allows me to fold the top down while I'm using it to give my elbows and knees extra cushioning during floor workouts. Brilliant.
Massaging the scalp is supposed to boost circulation and hair growth, so I use this every time I wash my hair. I lather up my shampoo, work this around my scalp in gentle, circular motions, and rinse. It's that easy.
This sporty crossbody bag has been on my wish list for some time. I know I'll use it for pretty much everything—running errands, going to the gym, and even hiking. After all, mid-hike snacks and sunscreen reapplication are nonnegotiable.
I love adding this protein powder to smoothies. It offers 20 grams of protein per serving, and most importantly, it tastes so good.
I take this all-in-one prebiotic and probiotic supplement each morning. With 24 science-backed strains, it supports digestive health, gut health, skin health, heart health, immune health, and gut barrier integrity. Personally, I've noticed a big difference in my bloating (or lack thereof) since using it.
I'm obsessed with this humidifier. It's mist-free, so there's no chance of mold or bacteria proliferating; it's dishwasher-safe for cleanliness; and it even doubles as a diffuser. It hydrates my skin and prevents colds. Read my full review.
Remember how I said the Canopy Bedside Humidifier doubles as a diffuser? Place one of the little gray scent pucks on top of the machine, add a couple of drops of this essential oil blend, and you're good to go. Soon enough, the room will be subtly scented with the most relaxing bergamot aroma.
I've struggled with anxiety for years, which is why I've been a dedicated journaler for years. Putting pen to paper helps me organize my thoughts, stay mindful, and feel better. While I'm a big proponent of free journaling, sometimes I could use prompts to get inspired. This is my favorite journal for that. Each prompt is thoughtful and insightful and truly helps you "dig deeper."
There's nothing like journaling while burning a candle to set the intentional mood. This one has mint and citrus notes to encourage a sense of clarity and determination. I like burning it at my desk while I work from home for extra motivation.
Another product I've waxed poetic about before, this sunscreen is so innovative, unique, and effective. I can't say enough good things. Read my full review.
I live in the Midwest, so waking up early on a cold winter morning is pretty much impossible unless I use this alarm clock. It simulates sunlight to help gently and naturally wake you up. It also plays soft sounds (like birdsong) to rouse you from sleep, which is way better than those jarring iPhone alarms. As if that's not enough, it works as a sound machine as you sleep. You can choose from many different soothing sounds, though I recommend the gentle rain one.
This wooden body tool might look a little strange, but it's so effective for at-home lymphatic drainage. I use it a couple of times per week to move stagnant fluid. Click here to learn how to use it.
Another body tool I love using, this dry brush exfoliates the skin, boosts circulation, and encourages lymphatic drainage all at once. I rub it against my skin in quick motions, moving it up and in towards my heart. It takes all of 10 minutes to do before showering, and I swear it makes my skin look so glowy.
I recently bought this sports bra from ALO and have been wearing it pretty much nonstop ever since. It offers good support for low-to-medium impact workouts like pilates and walking, and it's incredibly flattering. I already purchased another.
Moisturized skin is healthy skin! This rich and creamy body butter uses a combination of oils to smooth, brighten, and nourish the skin. It smells lovely as well.
The best thing I ever did for my oral health was invest in an electric toothbrush.
I pair my toothbrush with this refreshing mouthwash. It gives me the freshest breath.
There are so many benefits of fish oil, including heart, brain, and immune benefits. I take this supplement nightly. It has a subtle lemon flavor and none of that icky fishy taste that other fish oil supplements have.
I'm a big fan of Saltair bath and body products. They're effective, affordable, and turn my shower into a spa-like experience. This bodywash is a personal favorite. Niacinamide and zinc improve the tone and texture of my skin, while a fresh, dewy scent relaxes my mind.
This firming clay mask is for the body—not the face. Apply it all over, let it dry, and wash it off in the shower. The clay, caffeine, and green tea work together to tighten, firm, and prevent signs of aging in the skin. I find that it helps prevent the clogged pores that I sometimes get on my neck and chest.
Another body tool I keep close at hand is this little massage roller, which pairs well with my favorite body oils. I rub it up my arms and legs to boost circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage. It feels amazing, especially after a long day or on stiff limbs.
After living in Austin, Texas, for a few years, I'll never underestimate the power of an ice roller. I keep one stashed in my fridge to use whenever I'm feeling tired, my skin looks particularly dull, or my rosacea is flaring up from hot summer days.
I thought silk pillowcases were overhyped until I tried one. Now, I truly believe they're worth the money. They reduce friction so my hair stays smooth, minimize pillow-induced wrinkles on my skin, and feel so luxe.
If you want a new, easy way to exfoliate your body, I can't recommend this collection of products enough. It was inspired by Mediterranean bathhouse practices. Yes, it's expensive, but it gave me the silkiest skin of my life. Read my full review.
Shaving my legs, underarms, and bikini line always leads to at least one ingrown hair, and I hate it. Not only are they unsightly, but they're also often painful. This serum helps treat and prevent bumps and irritation, which is why it's a staple in my personal care/skincare routine, especially come summertime.
How is a hat a wellness product? It offers extra sun protection. I wear this one almost every single time I step outside for a walk or jog. It helps shield my face and neck so my sunscreen doesn't have to do all the heavy lifting. Plus, it's cute in an off-duty, athleisure sort of way.
Kaitlyn McLintock is an Associate Beauty Editor at Who What Wear. Although she covers a wide range of topics across a variety of categories, she specializes in celebrity interviews and skincare and wellness content. Having lived in Los Angeles and Austin, Texas, she recently relocated back to her home state of Michigan where she works remotely. Prior to Who What Wear, she freelanced for a variety of industry-leading digital publications, including InStyle, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Hello Giggles, and Coveteur. Before that, she held a long-term internship and subsequent contributor position at Byrdie. When she's not writing, researching, or testing the latest and greatest beauty products, she's working her way through an ever-growing book collection, swimming in the Great Lakes, or spending time with family.
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