Products I Refuse to Run Out Of: A Licensed Esthetician’s Must-Haves
I’m the type of girl who keeps all her staples fully stocked, but these 5 essentials? I literally can’t live without them:
1. Collagen (Inside + Out)
Collagen is an absolute non-negotiable in my routine. I’m such an advocate for it, if you know, you know. I literally have my mom on it too— it's that bad lol. I take collagen as a supplement because it works wonders, not just for skin elasticity, hydration, and smoothing fine lines, but also for stronger nails, healthier hair, joint support, and even gut health. Literally beauty from the inside out. My skin especially thanks me, it helps me keep my everyday breakouts and hormonal flare-ups in check. I mix unflavored Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Powder with MaryRuth Organics USDA Organic Liquid Probiotic in my first water of the day, its literally that easy.
I also use collagen wrap masks at least twice a week. My current favorite is the Medicube Collagen Overnight Wrapping Peel-Off Facial Mask; not only does it work wonders, but the peel-off in the morning is so satisfying. Heads up: if you’re claustrophobic, I wouldn’t recommend this one. For an alternative, I also love the Medicube Salmon DNA PDRN Pink Collagen Jelly Gel Mask, a gentler option that still delivers amazing results.
2. ☼SPF☼
Yes, I don’t care what anyone’s told you— people of every race, skin color, and ethnicity NEED SUNSCREEN! This is a non-negotiable, vital product that should be a staple in everyone’s skincare routine, year-round! I have a few favorites for different reasons and for different parts of your routine, so let’s dive in.
Why it’s important: Sunscreen is the ultimate anti-aging step. It helps prevent premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and keeps your skin tone even. You should be applying SPF to every part of your body, especially during the hotter months. Your skin is exposed to UV rays more than you realize, even just sitting at your desk or scrolling on your phone at midnight. Your skin deserves protection just like every other organ in your body, so treat it with care before it’s too late (Pro tip: The higher the SPF, the better!)
Supergoop! Glowscreen SPF 40 → This face SPF is radiant, dewy, and hydrating. I use it as my everyday base and sometimes wear it alone; it even doubles as a primer. As a makeup artist, I don’t wear full makeup daily (it can get repetitive!), so this is perfect for those “no-makeup” days. I use the shade Sunset, which also works as a tinted moisturizer. Non-comedogenic and suitable for all skin types— oily, dry, or combination.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 → Another face SPF, but this one has an invisible, matte finish. No white cast, making it perfect for anyone (including the guys) who wants a blank canvas. I prefer this one on chill days at home, but it’s great for protecting skin from everyday UV exposure. Also non-comedogenic and works for all skin types. (I think they now offer it up to SPF 50. I haven’t tried that one yet, but like I said before, the higher the better!)
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 → My go-to for all-over body protection. This product doubles as a moisturizer and dries completely clear. I mostly use it on my body, though some people love it for their face too. Bonus: it’s made by women of color, which makes it even more special.
Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm SPF 25 → SPF for your lips! My fiancé actually put me on this one, and it’s now my everyday must-have. It protects your lips from the sun while keeping them moisturized, perfect for chapped lips or just daily care.
3. Body Oil: The Hydration Hero!
Body oil is a daily essential for me— hydrated skin is healthy skin. Oils help strengthen the skin barrier, lock in moisture, and protect against dryness. I love applying my oils right after a shower while my skin is still damp— it seals in hydration and gives that silky, luminous finish. I also have a shower oil too that I’m excited to share with you guys ☺︎
Growing up with eczema, becoming a licensed esthetician was so important to me. It taught me how to understand my skin, why it behaves the way it does, and how to care for it properly. My skin is still a work in progress, but my barrier is stronger, and I feel more confident in understanding my skin’s needs.
Go-to oils I love: Bio-Oil Skincare Body Oil Serum, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Shimmer Body Oil with Vitamin E (I also like the regular version, but the shimmer one is my favorite), Eucerin pH5 Shower Oil. And of course, your pure natural oils-based favorites like jojoba, argan, rosehip, marula, and vitamin E oils, depending on your skin concerns, should be incorporated into your routine too!
Honorary mention: The Liquid Highlighter for Face & Body → I mix this with my body oils for an all-over shimmer that never fails to get compliments. This liquid highlighter can be used on your face AND body, and looks amazing on all skin tones. It’s also waterproof, long-lasting, vegan, and cruelty-free—a universal product you can feel good about. I mix this with my Palmer’s Shimmer Body Oil = chef’s kiss!
4. Exfoliation Station
Exfoliation is key for keeping a smooth & even complexion.. It removes dead skin cells, supports skin turnover, helps with hyperpigmentation, prevents ingrown hairs, and makes everything else you apply work smarter, not harder. But what many people don’t realize is that there are different types of exfoliants:
At-Home / Daily Exfoliation: These physically remove dead skin through friction & are gentle, everyday methods you can do yourself. Examples include exfoliating gloves, body brushes, sugar or salt scrubs, konjac sponges, and loofahs. I personally love using an exfoliating glove in the shower & my favorite scrubs right now are the Josie Maran Sugar Body Scrub and the Circadia Blue Bamboo Exfoliator for Body, which can be purchased in-studio at your next appointment.
Professional / Advanced Exfoliation: These are more intensive methods, typically performed by a licensed esthetician or professional, that remove dead skin and impurities. Waxing is one of my top exfoliation methods because it removes hair and dead skin simultaneously, leaving skin super smooth. Other options in this category include microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, + more. Curious which method is right for you? Check out all the options and book your next advanced exfoliation appointment with Faced by Naomi by clicking here.
Last but never least, chemical exfoliants: These use acids or enzymes to gently dissolve dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. Always consult with your dermatologist, esthetician, or skincare provider before using these.
5. Me + Niacinamide = ❤︎
Me and Niacinamide are like me and Collagen— locked in, lol. There are so many benefits to this ingredient that just about everyone can benefit from. Let’s first go over the benefits of Niacinamide & exactly why it’s so amazing:
Brightens skin & fades dark spots
Improves elasticity & firmness
Regulates oil production
Strengthens the skin barrier
Reduces redness & irritation
Minimizes the appearance of pores
Niacinamide shows up in so many products, which really speaks to its power. But the product I want to highlight today is:
Niacinamide Serum (The Inkey List) → This serum has been a total game-changer for me. Since I started using it, my skin is brighter, smoother, and just overall healthier. It’s super versatile— perfect on its own for a natural glow or doubled as a makeup primer. I use this every single day and honestly, I won’t go without it. Y’all, this product is that good!
These are my forever staples—the products I refuse to run out of under no circumstance. I’ve made all of them clickable links for easier access if you’re interested in purchasing. Also, If you have any product recommendations, please share them with me!
You can also check out other products and things I love by clicking here!
For more tips, tricks, and to book your next self-care session, be sure to book with Faced by Naomi by clicking here!
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Please note: not all products work for everyone and should be researched prior to use for yourself.