I gave up coffee about a year ago (it was torture at first, but I feel so much better for it), and I switched to green tea and matcha. Then, I discovered matcha lattes, which -- in case this trendy beverage hasn't yet made a splash at your local coffee shop -- kind of taste like warm green tea ice cream.
With the Erborian Perfect Morning BB Mask, $35, the matcha trend makes its way into skin care. Each single-size packet contains green powder that looks just like matcha -- because it is matcha … along with other skin-brightening ingredients. You dump it into your palm and sprinkle it with water to form a paste-like mask. In my dream scenario, I apply this mask while sipping a matcha latte.
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Nail Polish Remover That Smells Good Enough to Eat
Nail polish remover generally smells like toxic chemicals. Now, imagine if your nail polish remover smelled like dessert. Game changer. Ciaté Choc Pot in Mint Chocolate, $8, is reminiscent of my favorite chocolate bar (brownie and peppermint crunch dark chocolate from Fairway grocery store), and it takes off polish impressively well. You dip in a fingernail, rub it around for a few seconds, and it emerges completely clean. The only downside is that using it will make you hungry.
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Like Cucumber Slices But Better
If you've ever slapped cucumber slices on your puffy eyes, then you know the soothing, calming effect they can have. But it does tend to be a slimy endeavor. Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber De-Tox De-Puffing Eye Cubes, $50, take the anti-inflammatory magic of cucumber and combine it with arnica and caffeine (for dark circle-eradicating power) and aloe and hyaluronic acid for hydration. The nifty "cubes" go in the freezer until you're ready to use them. Then, you pop one into the provided gauze pouch and massage it around your eyes. You'll never want to use actual cucumber slices again.
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Matte But Moisturizing
Matte lip color is a major trend right now, but most matte formulas aren't comfortable to wear -- they're superdrying. Rimmel Show Off Lip Velvet, $5.99, is anything but. It's infused with oils and plant waxes that make the formula feel silky and velvety all day, but the finish is decidedly matte.
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Straight Hair Maker
You heard it here first: Straight hair is back. I saw more flat irons at the most recent New York Fashion Week than the last five seasons combined. If you have difficult hair, don't have a meltdown -- instead, pick up Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Brazilian Smooth Shampoo and Conditioner, $6.99 each. They're infused with Brazilian murumuru butter (yes, the name sounds bogus, but this stuff is the real deal -- rich in fatty acids and incredibly moisturizing), argan oil and fruit extracts. They protect your hair from heat styling while helping curls and kinks fall out easily.
March is a frustrating month. On paper, it's spring. In reality, it feels like the most soul-sucking part of winter. The frigid temperatures just won't quit. And that's where these new beauty products come in: They'll make you look and feel ready for sunnier days -- or spring break vacations.
There's a smoothing serum that gives you better hair while you sleep, nail polish remover that smells like a delectable dessert and a self-tanning mousse for a subtle, natural glow. These new beauty products are guaranteed to make you feel far less frustrated -- and soon enough it will be spring.
