As a beauty blogger, I’ve tested countless products over the years. Long before “full-time content creator” was even in my vocabulary, I worked in the beauty industry — which means I’ve been experimenting, critiquing, and letting products take up prime real estate on my vanity for years.

Through all the trials (and occasional disappointments), I’ve discovered ride-or-die favorites I’d repurchase in my sleep — and others that left me wondering, “What was the point?”

This post is my unfiltered take on it all — the products that truly deliver (aka the holy grails), and the ones I’ll be skipping next time. Let’s get into the wins, the failures, and the ones that are worth your coins (sorry but there are a lot worth it).

Restore Shampoo and Conditioner Bundle—- Yes, I know this one’s pricey… and I wish I could say it’s not worth it — but honestly? I love it. My hair feels amazing every time I use it. It’s one of those products I never want to be without, so I usually snag it during a sale.

Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray—- Another splurge, but hear me out: it’s a total game-changer on natural hair. It doesn’t weigh it down, smells lovely (not overpowering), and gives a soft, flexible hold. It wasn’t my favorite on extensions, but for fine natural hair — it’s worth the splurge.

COLLEEN ROTHSCHILD Quench & Shine Restorative Mask — This mask is so hydrating — it gives your hair that silky, healthy feel whether you have extensions or not. The scent is strong, but I personally love it. Spa-day vibes in a jar.

Drybar Hot Toddy Heat Protectant – My go-to heat protectant mist! Lightweight, smells great, and never leaves my hair greasy or heavy. A total staple before any styling.

Lume Whole Body Deodorant — Love this one for everywhere else — think privates and beyond! It’s gentle, effective, and perfect for all-over freshness.

Lume Whole Body Deodorant – Invisible Cream Stick —-  My holy grail deodorant. I’ve been using it for over two years and can’t live without it. Clean Tangerine is my go-to scent — fresh, clean, and long-lasting.

Handcraft Blends Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil – This is my ultimate body-care MVP. The only ingredient is organic coconut oil — nothing added, nothing fake. I use at least one bottle a month! It’s amazing as an in-shower moisturizer, post-shower lotion, or even a shaving oil. I’ll never be without it.

Benefit Precisely My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Brow Defining Pencil —- The only brow pencil I’ll use for the rest of my life. Waterproof, fine-tipped, and comes with a spoolie — perfection. It’s so easy to create natural, hair-like strokes.

Garnier Micellar Water For Waterproof Makeup + Neutrogena Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover —— My dream team for removing makeup. The Garnier micellar water takes off all my face makeup before cleansing, and the Neutrogena remover is amazing for waterproof eye makeup (just shake before using!).

Le Monde Gourmand Crème Vanille Body Oil —- This one came in PR. It smells lovely (rich and sweet), but I probably wouldn’t repurchase — it’s a bit strong for everyday. Their Coconut Body Oil, on the other hand, I love and will rebuy forever.

eos Shea Better Body Lotion Strawberry Dream  — At first, I thought this was overhyped — it claims to be lightweight, but it’s actually thick. The trick? Apply right after your shower while your skin’s still damp. Once you do, it melts in beautifully. Smells incredible and is great for sensitive skin.

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam —- I was gifted this in PR and didn’t expect much — but OMG, I’m obsessed. It removes every last trace of makeup and leaves your skin feeling luxurious. The bottle lasts forever (about 6 months for me). If it’s Korean skincare, I want it — Sulwhasoo is officially a new favorite brand.

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Face Serum – An oldie but a goodie — this product is a legend for a reason. It’s expensive, but it delivers that glowy, plumped-up skin we all want. Honestly, if I could preserve my whole body in this serum, I would.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum Vitamin C Alternative  —- This one’s on the fence for me. I adore the brand, but I haven’t been consistent enough to see dramatic results (even though I’ve finished a full bottle). I do have friends who swear by it, so it might just need more time!

COSRX Snail Mucin Repairing Serum — OBSESSED. It’s super hydrating — even my husband uses it! We stock up every time it’s on sale. It leaves skin bouncy, dewy, and smooth.

After testing all of these, I can honestly say that most of them have earned a permanent spot in my routine — true rebuy products that I never want to be without. From my tried-and-true haircare staples to the skincare and body products that keep me glowing, these are the ones I keep going back to again and again.

Of course, there are a few that didn’t totally wow me (and that’s okay — not every product works for everyone), but overall this round was full of winners.