“I’m A Beauty Editor & These Are The Only 5 Products I’m Using This Month”
January has a very specific energy. My skin feels tired, my hair looks like it’s been through emotional warfare, and my motivation is zero. This is the month where I strip things back, lean into comfort beauty, and reach for products that actually do something. No faff, no 12-step routines, just hardworking heroes that earn their place on my bathroom shelf. Here are my five beauty essentials I’m turning to this January…
If December was party season, January is repair season. This goes on before you wash your hair which feels like hard work but works brilliantly. I slick it through dry hair, leave it on while I answer emails or make a coffee, then shampoo. The result? Softer, stronger, shinier hair. Perfect for heat-styled, overworked strands that need some TLC, post-party season.
This is the skin equivalent of a really good night’s sleep. When my face looks flat, dull, or vaguely fed up, this mask brings it back to life. It’s cooling, hydrating and gives that immediate plumpness that January skin desperately needs. I use it before important meetings, date night with my hubby or anytime I want my skin to look like it’s coping.
Dry lips are my January nemesis, and this is the only thing I trust to sort them out properly. It’s rich but not sticky, nourishing without feeling gloopy and smells of freshly cut lemons. I slather it on at night and keep one in my bag during the day. It’s a lip balm that feels and looks luxurious but is genuinely effective too.
January can be a slog, so these Bounce Back Patches have become my quiet little secret weapon. You stick one on your body, wear it daily, and it works behind the scenes to support balance, detox, and help with mental clarity, no effort required. One packet gives you a full month’s supply that eases you back to feeling like yourself again, come Feb.
This serum is lightweight, hydrating and gives that fresh, healthy finish without shouting about it. I wear it alone on my WFH days or under makeup when I want skin to look naturally good, not overly done. It’s effortless but also adds that extra something to my skin, which is exactly the vibe I’m aiming for this month.
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.
