One of the nicest things about beauty products is that even a small item can feel like a big treat. Think of all the times a little nail polish has brightened your day. Or a wonderful-smelling bar of French soap. With that mindset, we bring you a few of our favorite mood boosters. Beauty is not only about what you put on the skin; it can be found everywhere in the scents, sensations and colors that delight you.
» sea therapy
SaltAbility Pure Himalayan Salt Stone
You don’t have to travel to the spa to experience the benefits of salt on your skin. Just rub this bar all over your body during a shower or bath, and wait for the NaCl to sink in. It is reputed to detoxify your body by balancing systemic pH, improve hydration by adding trace minerals, reduce muscle cramps by improving hydration and balance blood sugar. Who knew?
$12 each at Soft Surroundings
» fingers & toes
OPI Nail Lacquer
It’s amazing how wonderful a new coat of paint looks—and feels—on your hands and feet. Plus, it’s one of the fastest ways to pamper yourself. For fingers, I recommend light and transparent colors; they don’t show the wear nearly as much and look fresh much longer.
$10 each at Sephora
» a special glow
K. Hall Studio
Spanish Lime candle I can’t think of a better return on your investment than a long-burning candle. It provides hours of pleasurable aromatherapy, not to mention a soft, calming ambience. The summery scent of Spanish Lime is offered in K. Hall’s pretty glass container, 75 hours worth!
$25 at K. Hall stores
» french soaps
Rancé Olio di Rose
Delicious soap is a gift that keeps on giving. Six-bar sets from French perfumer Rancé (est. 1795!) hold their scent well and will enhance your shower experience. Other favorite summer scents: sweet Gardenia and exotic Jasmine Royal. Share a box with friends—or not!
$58 at Sallie Home
» bag of goodies
Sephora Voyager Bag and Gloss Balms
Talk about a kid in a candy store! Sephora is a one-stop shop for all things beauty. Always hard to resist are its adorable makeup bags, like the new Sprinkle Me With Kisses ‘voyager’ case. While you’re at it, why not fill it with the latest lip glosses?
$20, bag; $10 each, gloss balms at Sephora
