As you prepare for the start of the semester, check out these back-to-school items for your backpack. With the exception of the last item, all products are gender-neutral.
• Hand sanitizer. Touchland is cute and fun. It costs $10 and comes in scents such as Vanilla, Berry and Sandalwood.
• Lip balm/gloss/oil. My favorite lip balm is the Laneige, $19. The Aquaphor balm is also great lip balm without any tint and minimal shine. The Elf lip oil is $8, and the Pink Quartz shade is a universally flattering barely-there pink for a hydrated sheen to swipe on before class.
• Facial spray. The Mini-Caudalie Grape Water Spray, $12, is great for hydration and refreshing makeup. The Evian and Clinique are also great options, at $8 and $10 each. For anyone who experiences acne or redness, the Tower28 mini-spray at $12 contains hypochlorous acid, which kills acne-causing bacteria and can help soothe redness.
• Hand lotion. With the school soap, we all know our hands get dry, especially as the weather gets cooler. L’occitane is wonderful at $13 for a mini. Hempz is $8.
• Pimple patches. Mighty Patch is my favorite brand. They offer invisible ones you can wear during the day (17.49 for 39 patches). Star Face offers cute star-shaped ones in fun colors as well, which can be perfect for a pimple that pops up.
• Perfume/cologne rollerball. My favorite of all time is Burberry Goddess, a rich triple extraction of vanilla. It’s fun to touch up throughout the day with your favorite scent, which is usually available in a rollerball size for between $30 and $35.
• Easy-to-use blush. My favorite is Westman Atelier. The mini-blush and contour sticks are $25 each and are perfect for popping in your makeup bag.