Health and Beauty

The 5 Best Products for Dry Skin

Chrissa Hardy — Tue, 09 Jun 2020 08:00:06 +0000

Anyone with dry skin knows the discomfort of flaking, uneven makeup, and the ongoing effort to keep your face looking hydrated. You want it to look dewy, but not oily. And you want your moisturizer to keep working its magic without leaving a greasy residue. It's a tough balance to strike.

If you're looking for a new dry-skin focused product to add to your skincare routine, the five below are excellent picks that won't break your budget. (See also: The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Skincare Essentials)

Top 5 Products for Dry Skin

Yes To Cucumbers Gentle Milk Cleanser

An Amazon's Choice product, the dermatologist-recommended Yes To Cucumbers Gentle Milk Cleanser works well on all skin types, including dry or sensitive skin. The natural cleanser is free of parabens, phthalates, and SLS. The gentle formula has calming ingredients and antioxidants like green tea, aloe vera, and soy proteins to moisturize the skin while cleansing it.

The Allure "Best of Beauty" award-winner is recommended by Consumer Search and backed by outstanding online reviews.

Currently $8.44 on Amazon.com

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum With Hyaluronic Acid

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum With Hyaluronic Acid is the perfect blend of ingredients that your dry skin needs. Vitamin C blends with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E in this advanced formula to target common signs of aging, including dark spots, sun spots, brightness, firmness, wrinkles, and fine lines. And it's free of synthetic color additives, fragrance, and stabilizers, while dynamic active botanicals like aloe vera, MSM, botanical hyaluronic acid, witch hazel, and organic jojoba oil make this serum feel silky smooth on the skin.

It also has over 15,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $19.99 at Amazon.com

Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Daily Moisturizer

As Amazon’s #1 best-seller in moisturizers, the Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Daily Moisturizer has a fast-absorbing formula that leaves skin soft and smooth. This oil-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic moisturizer won’t clog pores and is clinically proven to improve skin tone and texture and reduce skin discoloration in as little as four weeks.

The soy proteins work to reduce blotchiness and discoloration, while helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It contains SPF 15 UVA/UVB sunscreen to protect against the damaging effects of sun. It's also backed by over 5,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $12.98 on Amazon.com

Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Cream

The Olay Regenerist Night Recovery Cream contains an amino-peptide complex that will penetrate 10 layers of skin to regenerate the surface skin cells. Powerful anti-aging ingredients like vitamin E, green tea, and niacinamide help stimulate collagen and plump up fine lines and wrinkles overnight. The super-hydrating formula will also exfoliate the skin, so you will wake to softer, younger looking skin in the morning. The intensely moisturizing cream has a light purple color and botanical scent, and spreads easily over skin.

A little goes a long way, so this container should last you a long time. The dermatologist-recommended cream is non-greasy and ideal for people with normal, dry, or combination skin. It was selected as one of the best night creams by Total Beauty and has over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $22.99 on Amazon.com

Glam Up Facial Sheet Masks

Glam Up Facial Sheet Masks come in 12 types and scents to fit all of your skincare needs using natural extracts, including shea butter, tomato, avocado, oatmeal, green tea, peppermint, and more. They are not tested on animals and are hypoallergenic. The Glam Up masks are designed with three layers to improve absorption into the skin.

They're also free of talc, paraben, silicone, synthetic colors, and sodium sulfate, and backed by over 1,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $9.88 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Products for Oily Skin

Chrissa Hardy — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 08:00:05 +0000

Anyone with oily skin knows that keeping the shine out of your t-zone is a constant struggle. You're always checking it, feeling for it, or using blotting sheets or face powder to hide it. Plus, people with oily skin are often prone to breakouts, and managing acne can feel like a full-time job.

Luckily, there are thousands of products on the market just for people with oily skin, and many of them are budget-friendly! If you're looking to combat that shine with a new product, here are some excellent options. (See also: The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Skincare Essentials)

Top 5 Products for Oily Skin

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is ideal for all skin types, including combination skin, and softens as it cleans. The mild, non-irritating, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free formula gently cleanses the skin and removes dirt, oil, and makeup (even stubborn eye makeup). It is commonly recommended by dermatologists and pediatricians because it's gentle enough for use on skin with conditions like psoriasis, rosacea, acne, and eczema. The gentle formula rinses easily and will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth, like you washed with lotion.

This cleanser is also backed by over 2,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $18.90 on Amazon.com

Cosmedica Skincare Hyaluronic Acid Serum

The Cosmedica Skincare Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a best-seller on Amazon and can be used on all skin types. This serum is natural and organic, and improves overall skin texture and brightness. You'll see a noticeable difference in your skin in terms of plumpness, softness, and balance. And it's cruelty-free, paraben-free, and without dyes or fragrances.

It's also backed by over 10,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $15.00 on Amazon.com

Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Daily Moisturizer

As Amazon’s #1 best-seller in facial tinted moisturizers, the Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Daily Moisturizer has a fast-absorbing formula that leaves skin soft and smooth. This oil-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic moisturizer won’t clog pores and is clinically proven to improve skin tone and texture and reduce skin discoloration in as little as four weeks.

Currently $12.98 on Amazon.com

NYX Matte Blotting Paper

The NYX Matte Blotting Papers can eliminate excess oil, minimize pores, and even help prevent future breakouts and shine. These blotting papers are made of 100% pure pulpate paper and leave your complexion looking matte and gorgeous. They can refresh the skin and even help fight humidity to keep your skin matte all day. The 50 sheets have a five-year shelf life, so they will last in your purse or beauty bag.

They are also an Amazon best-seller, with hundreds of five-star reviews.

Currently $4.00 on Amazon.com

The Body Shop Tea Tree Face Mask

The Body Shop Tea Tree Face Mask can help with acne, breakouts, and oily skin. The silky cleansing clay mask contains lemon tea tree oil and Tamanu oil, and it has menthol, which creates a soothing effect for acne-prone skin, helping to calm irritation and redness. It's the perfect natural blemish fighter because it eliminates existing blemishes, prevents future breakouts, removes impurities, and controls oil and shine. It has antibacterial benefits and will leave your skin feeling deeply cleansed, refreshed, soft, smooth, and ready for makeup.

This natural alternative for blemish prone skin is recommended by Allure and is a Total Beauty Top-Rated Beauty Product. It has rave reviews online, including from those who struggle with acne.

Currently $14.49 on Amazon

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Hyaluronic Acid Serums

Chrissa Hardy — Tue, 02 Jun 2020 19:19:55 +0000

Hyaluronic acid has gained a reputation of being a miracle product for the skin, and for good reason. It relieves dry skin, accelerates the healing of wounds, and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. And that's just to start. It can be a key ingredient in moisturizers and face masks, or it can be concentrated in a serum that you can apply as part of your everyday skincare routine.

If you're looking to give this versatile product a spin, any of the five below are excellent picks that won't break your budget. (See also: The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Skincare Essentials)

Top 5 Hyaluronic Acid Serums

Cosmedica Skincare Hyaluronic Acid Serum

It's also backed by over 15,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $15.00 at Amazon.com

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5 Serum

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5 Serum is famous for a reason. This brand creates simple, straightforward skincare products for all skin types. The hyaluronic acid + B5 serum has a concentration of 2% for multi-depth hydration in a water-based formula and the B5 also enhances surface hydration.

This serum is cruelty-free and backed by over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $16.95 at Amazon.com

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum With Hyaluronic Acid

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum With Hyaluronic Acid is the perfect blend of ingredients that your skin needs. Vitamin C blends with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E in this advanced formula to target common signs of aging, including dark spots, sun spots, brightness, firmness, wrinkles, and fine lines. And it's free of synthetic color additives, fragrance, and stabilizers, while dynamic active botanicals like Aloe Vera, MSM, Botanical Hyaluronic Acid, Witch Hazel, and organic Jojoba oil make this serum feel silky smooth on the skin.

It also has over 15,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $19.99 at Amazon.com

Yeouth Pure Hyaluronic Acid

Yeouth's Pure Hyaluronic Acid can diminish signs of dark circles, age spots, and puffiness when used regularly. This formula is made from naturally-derived ingredients that protect and nourish even the most sensitive skin, including delicate skin around the eyes and lips. It boosts collagen production and holds in moisture.

It's also cruelty-free and paraben-free, and backed by over 3,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $21.95 at Amazon.com

Tree of Life Hyaluronic Acid Serum

The Tree of Life Hyaluronic Acid Serum also has vitamin C and vitamin E, and this formula is infused with special anti-aging ingredients designed to further enhance and activate hyaluronic acid's moisturizing properties. Hyaluronic acid is known for helping the skin stay supple and soft and reducing wrinkles and age spots.

It's backed by outstanding online reviews, including over 3,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $10.95 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Eye Shadow Palettes

Chrissa Hardy — Fri, 29 May 2020 18:58:14 +0000

Just because you're going out less frequently doesn't mean you have to let your eye shadow game slip. I mean, you want to glow like a goddess on those Zoom meetings, right? And now you have plenty of time to perfect your look and find new colors to make your eyes pop.

You know your go-to colors, sure, but why not try something fun and new? Here are some excellent eye shadow palettes that offer a wide range of shades and won't break your budget. (See also: The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Beauty Essentials)

Top 5 Eye Shadow Palettes

Lamora Nude Eye Shadow Palette

The Lamora Eye Shadow Palette in nude is a best-seller for a reason. It was created with high-quality ingredients into a waterproof cream formula. In order to enhance the wearer's natural beauty, this palette offers 16 rich colors from rose gold to dark brown. The palette comes in a sleek case that's small enough to take on-the-go.

It includes a message inside that says "Be Your Own Kind of Beautiful," which is a reminder we all need, and it's backed by over 9,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $15.95 at Amazon.com

UCANBE Twilight and Dusk Eye Shadow Palette

The UCANBE Twilight and Dusk Eye Shadow Palette includes 18 incredible shades — 10 matte, seven shimmer and one metallic glitter colors that will make your eyes catch everyone else's. All shades are waterproof, easy to blend, safe for sensitive skin, and has not been tested on animals. With the wide range of colors, you can easily take your look from day to night.

This palette is also backed by over 1,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $9.98 at Amazon.com

L.A. Girl's Beauty Brick Eye Shadow Palette

L.A. Girl's Beauty Brick Eye Shadow Palette is the ideal palette to take on-the-go because of its magnetic case, double-sided applicator, and mirror so you can apply your shadow wherever you are. It has 12 highly pigmented nude shades featuring smooth mattes and dimensional shimmers. You can create a look for every occasion using the double-sided brush to contour, line, and highlight your lids.

It also has over 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $6.99 at Amazon.com

Beauty Glazed Shimmer Eye Shadow Palette

The Beauty Glazed Shimmer Eye Shadow Palette offers 15 gorgeous colors in a long-lasting formula that you'll never want to take off. It's waterproof too, so no need to worry about the weather interfering with your look. From light pinks to bold blues, this palette is bound to make your eyes pop.

And it's backed by over 2,000 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $9.99 at Amazon.com

SHANY Bold and Bright Eye Shadow Palette

If you want a complete palette to meet all of your makeup needs, the SHANY Bold and Bright Eye Shadow Palette is it. This palette has 120 bold colors to match every item of clothing in your closet, every mood, and every occasion. Each color is highly pigmented and won't smudge. Whether you're a beginner in eye makeup or a polished veteran, this palette will be your new favorite makeup item.

It's backed by outstanding online reviews, including over 1,000 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $17.96 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Sheet Masks

Chrissa Hardy — Wed, 27 May 2020 18:38:23 +0000

There are few things more satisfying at the end of a long day than putting on a sheet mask. The healing gel that coats the inside of a sheet mask offers immediate relief to your skin, and after you remove it, your face is left dewy and luminous. And most of the time, you don't even need to wash your face afterwards. You can just leave the remaining gel to seep into your skin and continue working its magic.

If you're new to the sheet mask scene, or are just looking for a new one to try, any of the five below are excellent picks that won't break your budget. (See also: The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Skincare Essentials)

Top 5 Sheet Masks

Dermal Korea Full Face Sheet Masks

The Dermal Korea Full Face Sheet Masks are a best-seller on Amazon and can be used on all skin types. They contain collagen and vitamin E, both of which rejuvenate the skin and repair skin cells. These masks also moisturize dry and irritated skin, and tighten pores. Once applied, leave them on for 15-20 minutes before removing. They are also cruelty-free with natural ingredients.

They're available in a wide range of types and are backed by over 6,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $9.99 at Amazon.com

Glam Up Facial Sheet Masks

They're also free of talc, paraben, silicone, synthetic colors, and sodium sulfate, and backed by over 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $9.88 at Amazon.com

LA Pure Korean Face Masks

LA Pure's Korean Face Masks will be your new best friend while stuck at home. Using snail secretion filtrate — a popular ingredient in Korean beauty products — these masks repair, nourish, and rejuvenate your skin in just 15-20 minutes. The other natural ingredients in these masks include aloe vera, cucumber, star anise, panax ginseng, and more. They are cruelty-free, paraben-free, and are made from 100% cotton.

They also have hundreds of five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $18.97 at Amazon.com

Celavi Essence Sheet Masks

The Celavi Essence Sheet Masks can diminish signs of dark circles, age spots, puffiness, and pigmentation when used regularly. They are infused with natural botanical ingredients like tea tree, cucumber, honey, charcoal, and avocado and made for all skin types. These masks will leave your skin feeling super soft and looking radiant in no time.

They're also cruelty-free and paraben-free, and backed by over 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $9.99 at Amazon.com

Viva Naturals Sheet Masks

The Viva Naturals Sheet Masks are another great option if you're trying to recreate a spa-like experience at home. In just 15 minutes, these masks cleanse and detoxify your skin using a blend of collagen and hyaluronic acid. They come in four types: Soothing (Lavender), Glowing (Ylang Ylang), Brightening (Sweet Orange), and Revitalizing (Rose), and all provide superior results, even on sensitive skin.

They're backed by outstanding online reviews, including over 500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $21.95 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Haircare Essentials

Chrissa Hardy — Mon, 18 May 2020 20:07:42 +0000

The worst part of being stuck at home is the inability to get your regular haircuts and colors. And even though that's a major inconvenience, it's not worth breaking quarantine early. Besides, there are hundreds of products on the market that can help you maintain hair health until the salons reopen.

Whether you're looking for a dry shampoo to extend your style, or a root cover-up to hide those grays, you can find all the products to meet your haircare needs and have them delivered right to your door. (See also: The 5 Best Home Hair Dyes)

Top 5 Stay-At-Home Haircare Essentials

Crave Naturals Glide Thru Detangler Hair Brush

The Crave Naturals Glide Thru Detangling Brush is a best-seller on Amazon and is ideal for any hair type, including adult’s hair, kids’ hair, fine hair, and even extensions. It easily detangles hair, adds shine, minimizes split ends, and improves hair health. The brush has firm, painless bristles that massage the scalp, smooth the follicle layer, and increase circulation, which may help increase hair growth. The unique cone-shaped plastic bristles work to separate the hair sideways instead of down, gently gliding through even the toughest knots and tangles.

The brush is available in a wide range of colors and is backed by over 7,000 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $11.88 at Amazon.com

amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo

amika Perk Up dry shampoo was voted one of the best dry shampoos by several publications because it can help improve hair health with each use. The ultra-lightweight, talc-free mist is formulated to clean and refresh hair, absorb excess oil and dirt, add volume, refresh the roots, and shape without buildup. The nutrient-rich, vegan, dry shampoo contains sea buckthorn berry extract, which is high in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fatty acids. This helps repair split ends, impart shine, and strengthen and nourish hair.

This dry shampoo is perfect for when you want to extend your style an additional day without washing. It's ideal for all hair types, including color treated hair, and does not leave any powdery white residue behind. It also has over 1,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $25.00 at Amazon.com

L'Oreal Paris Magic Root Cover Up Gray Concealer

The L'Oreal Paris Magic Root Cover Up Gray Concealer will be your new best friend while stuck at home. If you're sporting a new crop of grays that you wish to hide temporarily, this is the product for you. The gray concealer spray comes in a variety of colors to match your current color. It's fast-drying, water-resistant, ammonia and peroxide-free, and leaves no residue. It's also good for all hair types.

And it has over 7,000 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $8.19 at Amazon.com

Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-In Conditioner

The Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-In Conditioning Cream is ideal for frizzy, dry, and unmanageable hair. The frizz-fighting formula will leave your hair smooth, shiny, manageable, and renewed without weighing it down or leaving it feeling greasy. In fact, it promises to provide you with smoother hair that will stay sleek for three days, even in 97% humidity. This cream has a powerful combination of vitamins, and argan oil from Morocco that soaks deep into the hair to smooth each strand. It's also paraben and silicone-free.

It is backed by over 3,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $2.99 at Amazon.com

Equinox International Professional Barber Hair Cutting Shears

The Equinox International Professional Hair Cutting Shears are your best bet if you're itching to trim your hair at home. These shears are made from Japanese stainless steel and tempered with precise blades and hand-sharpened cutting edges with an easy grip handle design to evenly trim hair. At just 4.8 ounces and 6.5 inches long, they are lightweight enough for anyone to use.

They're backed by outstanding online reviews, including over 5,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $23.97 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Beauty Essentials

Chrissa Hardy — Tue, 05 May 2020 19:53:44 +0000

An important aspect of self-care is basic grooming and hygiene, and without the need to leave the house every day, that can take a backseat. It's understandable, since you can attend work meetings sans pants and have your own happy hours well before 5 p.m.

Your daily routines have changed quite a bit, but that doesn't mean you need to neglect your beauty regimens, especially if they boost your self-esteem and give you a sense of control in this strange, chaotic time. Use any of the items below, and you'll feel like a glowing goddess in no time — all without breaking your budget. (See also: The 5 Best Eyelash Curlers)

Top 5 Stay-At-Home Beauty Essentials

amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo

Currently $25.00 at Amazon.com

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair can visibly fade the look of stubborn wrinkles and crow's feet, brighten skin tone, smooth fine lines and texture, and protect the skin from the sun's damaging rays with SPF 30. It combines Retinol SA with hyaluronic acid and glucose complex, an exclusive booster that delivers pure stabilized retinol into the skin's surface, leaving skin smoother. The exclusive sustained action works to continuously moisturize and renew the look of skin throughout the day, helping to smooth wrinkles fast and diminish the look of age spots.

It is backed by outstanding reviews online and has over 4,500 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $17.50 at Amazon.com

Sally Hansen Cream Hair Remover Kit

The Sally Hansen Cream Hair Remover Duo Kit has remained one of the most popular pain-free hair removal creams for the face, upper lip, and chin area for women. After using the gentle hair remover cream, you can use the extra care skin conditioning lotion to soothe and moisturize the skin. The kit is also enhanced by collagen and vitamin E to soften and smooth the skin, as well as willow herb and pumpkin seed extracts to reduce the appearance of hair regrowth.

Since you can't get to the salon for a wax or threading, this is your best bet for at-home hair removal. Many users found that the vanilla scent is much better than most other hair removal products. It also has over 1,500 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $5.27 at Amazon.com

Hempz Original Herbal Moisturizer

Hempz Original Herbal Moisturizer is one of Amazon’s best-sellers and top rated items, with more than 6,500 5-star reviews. This lotion is a cult classic because it absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving no greasy residue behind. It contains 100% pure natural hemp seed oil and other pure herbal extracts. It will moisturize and protect your skin for 12 hours using essential fatty acids, key amino acids, Shea butter, and ginseng. It also contains vitamins A, C, and E, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and stretch marks.

Most reviewers describe the scent as light and fresh, but if you aren’t a fan, there are a number of other options available, like green tea with Asian pear, sweet pineapple and honey melon, and fresh coconut and watermelon.

Currently $13.28 at Amazon.com

Tweezerman Stainless Steel Slant Tweezer

The best-selling, award-winning Tweezerman Stainless Steel Slant Tweezers have been recommended by professional makeup artists, celebrities, and models. The stainless steel tips are hand-filed, sharp enough for precision hair removal, perfectly aligned, and have a 25-degree angled edge, which works well against the brow bone. Stainless steel is safer than other types of metals, so these shouldn’t cause skin irritation or infections. They are also available in a range of colors.

These high-quality tweezers are backed by outstanding online reviews, including over 3,000 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $23.00 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Skincare Essentials

Chrissa Hardy — Thu, 30 Apr 2020 17:07:39 +0000

With social distancing measures in place and stay-at-home orders issued, it's been difficult for many of us to replicate the beauty treatments that we're used to getting at our local salons. Which face mask should you use? Is it time to try a new night cream? Are you using the right products for your skin type? Without the regular guidance of your dermatologist or esthetician, these are not easy questions to answer. Luckily, you don't need an expert to build your ideal skincare regimen. You can DIY!

If you've been missing your regular facial appointments, or you're just looking to switch up your skincare routine, the items below will give your skin a fresh glow, without breaking your budget. (See also: The 5 Best Acne Treatments)

Top 5 Stay-At-Home Skincare Essentials

Neutrogena Cleansing Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

Neutrogena Cleansing Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover can remove even the most stubborn makeup, like waterproof mascara. The dermatologist-developed, ophthalmologist-tested remover is safe for contact lens wearers and won’t irritate even the most sensitive skin. The oil-free, fragrance-free remover has been clinically proven to naturally remove makeup while moisturizing the skin around the eyes. Your skin will feel clean and fresh thanks to the aloe and cucumber extracts. It is 97% naturally derived and leaves no greasy residue behind.

This is one of Amazon’s best-selling makeup removers. Good Housekeeping selected it as the best remover for waterproof makeup, as well as a top performer compared to all other waterproof eye makeup removers. It also has over 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $5.82 at Amazon.com

Mario Badescu Cleansing Milk

The Mario Badescu Cleansing Milk with carnation rice oil is enriched with vitamins and antioxidants to smooth and soften the skin. The gentle, creamy, wipe-off cleanser works on all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. It removes makeup and debris, fights free radicals, and slows skin degradation.

The cult classic has outstanding online reviews and is frequently recommended by beauty bloggers. It also has hundreds of four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $12.00 at Amazon.com

Pure Body Naturals Dead Sea Mud Mask

As Amazon’s #1 best-seller in facial masks, this Dead Sea Mud Mask can produce noticeable results on both the face and body. The mask is rich in natural minerals and nourishing oils that are known to treat, detoxify, cleanse, and hydrate the skin. After each use, the mask can minimize pores and blackheads, reduce wrinkles, fight acne, remove dead skin cells, stimulate circulation, absorb excess oil and toxins, and moisturize the skin.

This premium spa quality mask can even help reduce the appearance of acne scarring on the face. It can also treat other conditions of the skin, besides acne and acne scarring, and can even provide incredible anti-aging benefits. It also has over 8,000 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $13.99 at Amazon.com

Alina Skin Care Enhanced Vitamin C Serum With Hyaluronic Acid

Alina Skin Care Enhanced Vitamin C Serum is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to wrap their serum and moisturizer up in one simple step. This feels like a cream, but works like a serum, penetrating the surface levels of the skin to deeply repair your skin. It's enhanced by vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, organic aloe vera extract, green and white tea extracts, and Alina’s antioxidant blend, which can help fight free radicals and reduce stress to the skin.

It's also a powerful collagen booster and anti-aging solution, so it can help reduce the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. This has outstanding reviews and over 1,000 four-star reviews on Amazon alone.

Currently $24.46 at Amazon.com

CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Lotion PM

CeraVe Moisturizing Facial Lotion PM can repair the most damaged skin by replenishing ceramides throughout the night. The lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and repairing ceramides. The dermatologist recommended lotion has patented time release MVE technology, which will slowly release the potent ingredients over time. It's fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and is ideal for all skin types, particularly for sensitive and dry skin.

This lotion was selected as the best night cream by Consumer Search and received an InStyle Award for the Best Night Cream. It's also recommended by Total Beauty, Into the Gloss, and About.com. It also has stellar online reviews, including more than 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $12.38 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Self-Care Essentials

Chrissa Hardy — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 17:54:12 +0000

Even though we're all staying at home, and encouraged to do so for the foreseeable future, getting in the right mindset to relax has not been easy. Between the grim news updates, many local business and public places being closed, and having to share the same space as your entire family all the time, self-care can feel like an impossible chore.

Luckily, all you need to do to prioritize self-care is make sure you have the proper tools and accessories to create a spa-like atmosphere at home. And it won't even put a dent in your budget. Use any of the items below, throw on some sweatpants, and take some time just for you. (See also: The 5 Best Massage Tools)

Top 5 Stay-At-Home Self-Care Essentials

The Body Shop Tea Tree Face Mask

The Body Shop Tea Tree Face Mask can help with acne, breakouts, and oily skin. The silky cleansing clay mask contains lemon tea tree oil and Tamanu oil, so it has a smell that most reviewers tend to like. The instantly cooling mask has menthol, which creates a soothing effect for acne-prone skin, helping to calm irritation and redness. It is the perfect natural blemish fighter because it eliminates existing blemishes, prevents future breakouts, removes impurities, and controls oil and shine. It has antibacterial benefits and will leave your skin feeling deeply cleansed, refreshed, soft, smooth, and ready for makeup.

This natural alternative for blemish-prone skin is recommended by Allure and is a Total Beauty Top-Rated Beauty Product and has hundreds of five-star reviews Amazon.

Currently $14.49 at Amazon.com

FIVE S Vibration Massage Seat Cushion

The portable FIVE S Vibration Massage Seat Cushion can help with pain or provide the perfect at-home spa experience at the end of a long day. The vibrating massager includes a seat cushion, optional heat function, and a remote and car adapter, so you can use it at home or in the car. The 10-motor vibration massage cushion can help with pain in the neck, shoulders, back, and thighs. It has three massage speeds, four massage programs, and four zones to hit each area of the body. It also has automatic shut down after 30 minutes. It's also backed by over 2,500 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $69.99 at Amazon.com

Conair True Glow All-In-One Nail Care System

If you’re looking to replicate the luxurious service you get at the nail salon, then the Conair True Glow All-In-One Nail Care System is right for you. The unique all-in-one design offers professional results from home. This nail care system can help create the perfect manicure and pedicure in just four easy steps. You can quickly shape, smooth, and polish natural or acrylic nails using the 12 attachments, including a cuticle shaper, metal smoothing plate, metal shaping plate, buffing plate, smoothing plate, medium stone cone, large sapphire cone, medium sapphire cone, small sapphire cone, smoothing disc, shaping disc, and buffing disc.

The rechargeable nail tool has variable speed control and light to help you achieve flawless results. The manicure bowl will help soften nails and cuticles, while the built-in nail dryer can speed up drying time so your nails look picture perfect in no time.

Currently $49.99 at Amazon.com

Sleep Master Sleep Mask

The Sleep Master Sleep Mask is ideal for anyone who needs to completely block out the light and sound around them. This can virtually shut off the world while you sleep. The fully adjustable, lightweight, soft, breathable cool satin sleep mask comfortably surrounds your head and covers your ears to quickly create a relaxing effect. By simultaneously blocking light and muffling sound, it can help induce a deep, refreshing sleep.

It is wide enough to comfortably fit your head and connects in the back with velcro strips. It is hypoallergenic, latex-free, hand-washable, and also works well with a CPAP facial mask. Sleep Master claims that it’s also more hygienic and longer-lasting than other masks on the market. It is an Amazon best-seller and has over 3,000 four-star reviews.

Currently $25.90 at Amazon.com

DreamFoam Bedding Gel Swirl Memory Foam Topper

Amazon’s Choice for memory foam mattress toppers, the DreamFoam Bedding Gel Swirl Memory Foam Topper is made of soft visco-elastic CertiPUR-certified gel-infused memory foam, which adds a lot of comfort and support to any aging mattress. The 2-inch memory foam mattress topper reduces motion transfer and won't generate or retain a lot of heat.

It is available in a range of sizes and backed by a three-year warranty. It's also Consumer Search's top pick and recommended by The Wirecutter and The Sweethome. It has outstanding online reviews, including more than 5,500 four-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $63.99 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

The 5 Best Stay-At-Home Fitness Essentials

Chrissa Hardy — Thu, 23 Apr 2020 16:11:35 +0000

Since we can't currently visit our local gyms, participate in group fitness classes, or take in spectacular views on popular hiking or jogging trails, we have to get creative if we want to work up a sweat. And a big part of that is assembling a budget-friendly home gym that also doesn't take up too much space — which isn't always easy. You don't need a room full of bulky cardio machines to get fit at home, and most of us couldn't afford that anyway.

Just a few key items and versatile accessories will help you tone every muscle in your body, and will keep you safe and healthy during your time at home. Use any of the items below, throw on a fun playlist, and get your sweat on. (See also: The 5 Best Women's Cross Training Shoes)

Top 5 Stay-At-Home Fitness Essentials

Home-Complete 4 Resistance Exercise Loop Bands

As Amazon’s #1 best-seller in physical therapy arm exercisers, the Home-Complete 4 Resistance Exercise Loop Bands are ideal for your physical therapy needs and can increase your flexibility, balance, and strength quickly. This affordable set of four durable bands with varying resistance (Light-Green, Medium-Blue, Heavy-Red and XX-Heavy-Black) can help strengthen and tone your shoulders, hips, arms, and legs. The multifunctional loop bands can be used for ankle resistance, knee resistance, leg resistance, and on the thighs and wrists.

These bands offer a complete body toning workout, so you can tone and strengthen any affected areas. They are ideal for physical therapy rehabilitation, weight loss, Pilates, yoga, and stretching. They can also be effective in recovery from torn MCL, torn ACL, knee replacement, and patella and meniscus rehab. These bands also have over 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $9.99 at Amazon.com

Sivan Health and Fitness Extra Thick NBR Comfort Foam Mat

The Sivan Health and Fitness Extra Thick NBR Comfort Foam Mat is ideal for all your favorite exercises, including yoga and Pilates. It is also one of the thickest mats on the market, providing better impact absorption. The extra thick mat is made with specially designed memory foam, so it will optimally protect your knees and joints.

The mat has a ribbed surface on one side and a smooth surface on the other side, so it will grip the floor to improve your workout and prevent injuries. The durable, long-lasting material is moisture-resistant and easy to clean, so it will last you for years. It is available in different colors and comes with an integrated carry strap, so it is easy to transport. This mat also has over 6,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $38.99 at Amazon.com

Trideer Exercise Ball

The Trideer Exercise Ball is one of the highest density exercise balls on the market. It is 2,000 micrometers thick and can resist up to 2,200 lbs. It's also made of top quality materials, free of toxic PVC material, BPA, and heavy metals. This ball comes in a small box and includes a quick inflation foot pump. You can use this for physical therapy, yoga, Pilates, back and abdominal training, pregnancy exercises, and more. The Trideer Exercise Ball comes in five sizes and is also backed by more than 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

Currently $33.99 at Amazon.com

Fit Skuad Jump Rope

The Fit Skuad Jump Rope is the perfect addition to your home gym. It comes with a fully adjustable 10-foot long cable, and is fitted with extra-large screws that make it easy to adjust. It can be used by adults and kids, from beginners in fitness to swole elites. This jump rope has light and durable aluminum handles and a foam grip for better feel. The steel cable is coated with a PVC sleeve for protection and better durability.

You'll also receive a premium carrying bag so you can bring your rope wherever you go. It's also backed by over 800 five-star Amazon reviews.

Currently $19.99 at Amazon.com

Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike allows you to get in a stellar cardio workout without ever leaving your home. The bike uses a magnetic resistance mechanism with eight resistance levels. The tension knobs control the difficulty to simulate riding on different terrains and customize your workout according to your fitness level. It comes with a high-density foam cushioned seat, and an LCD computer screen that acts as an odometer and has a sharp panel display that shows time, speed, distance, and calories burned. This exercise bike currently has over 5,000 five-star ratings on Amazon.

Currently $159.99 at Amazon.com

And those are our recommendations for the best stay-at-home kitchen essentials. As always, be sure to check Wise Bread's Buying Calendar to learn when and how to buy just about anything!

This article is from Chrissa Hardy of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Ask the Readers: What Helps You Feel Better When You're Sick?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 10 Mar 2020 09:30:16 +0000

Nobody likes to be sick — especially not now, with COVID-19 on everyone's mind. But even if you don't have the novel coronavirus and you're just down with the regular flu or a common cold, being sick can be miserable. Thankfully, there are a number of things that can help you feel better when you're under the weather, such as chicken noodle soup, honey-ginger tea, appropriate medications, and lots of rest.

What helps you feel better when you're sick? Are there any sick-day staples that you always keep on hand, just in case? What restful, low-effort activities do you like to do when you're not feeling well?

Tell us about the things that help you feel better when you're sick and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We're doing three giveaways — here's how you can win:

Follow us on Twitter
Tweet about our giveaway for an entry.
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Use our Rafflecopter widget for your chance to win one of three Amazon Gift Cards:

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Giveaway Rules:

Contest ends Monday, March 16th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. Winners will be announced after March 16th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered, or associated with Facebook or Twitter.
You must be 18 and U.S. resident to enter. Void where prohibited.

Good Luck!

Tell us about the things that help you feel better when you're sick and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Why You Should Throw a Dinner Party to Talk About Death

Emily Guy Birken — Mon, 02 Dec 2019 09:00:12 +0000

While it may seem like the last topic you'd want to bring up over a nice meal, dinner parties thrown specifically to talk about death are a growing phenomenon. These so-called "death dinners" allow people to discuss and ultimately plan for the inevitable in a way that can be positive, life-affirming, and even a little bit fun.

Rather than avoid talking about a difficult subject, a death dinner can give you the space you need to consider some tough questions with friends and loved ones. Here's why you might want to consider hosting such a dinner, and how you can make sure you and your guests get the most out of your evening.

Why would you want to host a death dinner?

Family dinner conversations about the end of life might sound uncomfortable — or perhaps a total drag — but holding such a dinner may make a difficult topic easier to grapple with.

According to Michael Hebb, founder of the Death Over Dinner movement, "The dinner table is the most forgiving place for difficult conversations." Sharing food fosters a connection among diners, which can empower everyone involved to open up about their fears, hopes, and ideas.

It can also help you and your guests understand some of the issues that you'll face as you come to the end of your life or a loved one's life. We don't know what we don't know, especially about a topic as hard to discuss as death. Having an opportunity to discuss these issues openly can help illuminate the gaps in your understanding of end-of-life planning, while simultaneously helping you to feel close to your fellow dinner companions.

How can you introduce such an awkward conversation?

There are a number of ways you can plan these events to help ensure a lively and meaningful discussion. First, you may want to prepare some icebreaker questions.

Some common conversation starters for such a dinner include:

If you had a funeral, would you want it to be fun or more traditional?
What do you want to do with all your belongings?
Do you have a will?
Would you rather write your own obituary or entrust it with someone else? Who would that be?
Would you want any other funeral events, such as a wake or luncheon?

In addition, the Death Over Dinner program also provides hosts with reading material, a video, and a podcast to share with your dinner guests ahead of the meal. These materials can form the basis of your conversation over dinner, and give you an opportunity to talk about what decisions you will need to make.

You can choose ahead of time which end-of-life topic you're most interested in discussing at your dinner party and choose the materials that fit best. That means you can steer your dinner party toward topics such as the environmental impact of various burial and cremation options, how to plan ahead for the financial impact of your death, or philosophical questions about end-of-life.

Talking about death can help you plan ahead

A death dinner can not only help demystify an important part of our lives, but you can use it as an opportunity to discuss which documents and policies help people prepare for the end of life. According to the National Institute on Aging, here are a few that may be worth highlighting at your death dinner.

An In Case of Emergency document

This is a rundown of all the personal information your family or executor would need after your death. This includes things like Social Security numbers, the location of your will and other legal documents, logins to online accounts, personal contacts, and the names and contact information for any professionals who have helped create your estate plan (such as your lawyer, insurance agent, accountant, etc).

Financial documents and asset information

When someone passes away, there are typically three questions that follow:

Where is their money?
What did they have of value?
What debt will need to be addressed?

Some debt can be forgiven when someone dies, and knowing the financial history of the deceased may help ensure everything is covered. (See also: 11 Essential Documents You Should Keep in Your Safe)

Wills and trusts

These documents often go much deeper than just who inherits your belongings. Consider discussing the difference between wills and trusts, and the process in which these wishes become legally binding.

Talking about how to create and organize these kinds of documents can help insure you and your guests are prepared in case of a sudden death. Adding the stress of trying to handle post-death financial chores without these documents on top of bereavement is a burden that you and your guests can help avoid by having a frank conversation about their importance. (See also: Don't Make These 5 Common Mistakes When Writing a Will)

Enjoying your death dinner

Most people don't relish even thinking about death, but hosting a dinner can be a good opportunity to talk openly about the topic in a supportive setting. Having such a conversation over dinner also removes some of the stigma and pain of discussing death. That makes it more likely that you can have a meaningful and life-affirming conversation about death with people you care about.

Though it may feel odd to plan such a dinner party, having a death dinner can inspire you and other dinner guests to start making appropriate arrangements while you still have time to think them through. And that is an incredible gift to your loved ones.

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This article is from Emily Guy Birken of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

Ask the Readers: How Do You Stay Active When It's Cold Out?

Ashley Jacobs — Tue, 05 Nov 2019 08:30:10 +0000

As we head into winter and days with more rain, wind, or snow, you'll probably be spending more time indoors. Outdoor activities are less appealing (and sometimes unsafe) in bad weather, for sure! Still, taking care of your body should be a year-round priority, and it's important to stay active even when you're stuck inside.

How do you stay active when it's cold out? What are some fitness activities that you like to do indoors? Do you go to gyms or indoor recreation centers to work out? If you still like to go out when the weather is less than ideal, what gear do you take with you to make sure you stay warm and safe while you're outside?

Tell us how you stay active when it's cold out and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

Win 1 of 3 $20 Amazon Gift Cards

We're doing three giveaways — here's how you can win:

Follow us on Twitter
Tweet about our giveaway for an entry.
Visit our Facebook page for an entry.
Follow @janetonthemoney on Twitter.

Use our Rafflecopter widget for your chance to win one of three Amazon Gift Cards:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway Rules:

Contest ends Monday, November 11th at 11:59 p.m. Pacific. Winners will be announced after November 11th on the original post. Winners will also be contacted via email.
This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered, or associated with Facebook or Twitter.
You must be 18 and U.S. resident to enter. Void where prohibited.

Good Luck!

Tell us how you stay active when it's cold out and we'll enter you in a drawing to win a $20 Amazon Gift Card!

This article is from Ashley Jacobs of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Apps That Help You Save on Prescriptions

Kat Tretina — Wed, 21 Nov 2018 09:00:12 +0000

If you have an ongoing health condition that requires prescription medication, you're well aware of how expensive it can be. Rising medication costs have increasingly hurt consumers' wallets — and their health. In fact, in a recent survey by Consumer Reports, 17 percent of respondents said they didn't fill a needed prescription due to cost.

However, skipping your medication because you can't afford it can put your health at risk and can worsen your medical conditions. Thankfully, there are apps that can help reduce your costs and make your prescriptions more affordable. (See also: The One Question You Need to Answer to Choose the Best Health Care Plan)

1. Easy Drug Card

The Easy Drug Card is a discount prescription app you can use to save money on your prescriptions, if you don't have insurance or if your insurance won't cover the cost of your medicine. What sets the Easy Drug Card apart from similar apps is that you can also use it to save on your pet's medications, too.

With the Easy Drug Card, you get a discount of up to 80 percent off your prescription price.

2. FamilyWize

FamilyWize is a free app where you can download or print off a discount card and use it at any major pharmacy. This app is for everyone, whether or not you have insurance. Hand the card to the pharmacist, and they'll enter the card's information. The FamilyWize card is accepted at all major pharmacies, and the average savings is 40 percent per prescription.

3. GoodRX

Most people go to the same pharmacy to fill all of their prescriptions. It's easy and quick, but you might be paying a premium for that convenience.

Prescription drug prices can vary widely from pharmacy to pharmacy, even if you have insurance. For example, if you needed to fill a prescription for Lipitor in the Orlando area, you'd pay $23 at Walgreens. But, if you're willing to drive to Costco, you'd pay just $10 for the same exact medicine.

However, you don't need to call each pharmacy to get a quote. GoodRX is an app that helps simplify the process. Just download the app and enter the name of your prescription and it will list the price of the medicine at local pharmacies near you. Even better, GoodRX also posts coupons you can use at each pharmacy to save money, too. (See also: 7 Smart Ways to Invest in Your Health)

4. ScriptSave WellRX

ScriptSave WellRx helps you find the lowest price on your medications and offers discounts to help you save even more money. Just enter the name of your medication and zip code, and the app will tell you which local pharmacy offers the cheapest price. Download the ScriptSave WellRX savings card, and you'll save up to 80 percent on your prescriptions. It's especially helpful for those without insurance or who have very high copays.

5. CVS ExtraCare

With the CVS ExtraCare app, you can manage your prescriptions and sign up for the Health Rewards program. With this program, you can earn credits that can be redeemed for Target coupons.

You earn a $5 coupon for every 10 credits you earn:

Fill or refill a prescription: 1 credit
Fill or refill a 90-day prescription: 3 credits
Sign up for pharmacy alerts: 1 credit
Sign up for email reminders: 1 credit
Get a flu shot or vaccine from an in-store pharmacist: 1 credit
Add prescriptions to your online account: 3 credits

As you can see, these credits add up, and you can use the coupons on most items in the store, including food, gifts, or housewares.

6. Walgreens

The Walgreens app is a comprehensive tool you can use to manage your family's prescriptions. You can transfer prescriptions, order refills, and even chat with a pharmacy expert through the app.

The app can also help you save money by earning points for filling your prescriptions:

Earn 100 points for every 30-day prescription picked up in-store.
Earn 300 points for every 90-day prescription.
Earn 100 points per vaccination.

Those points can be redeemed for discounts at the register.

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This article is from Kat Tretina of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread:

6 Self-Care Rituals to Try When You Find Out You're Pregnant

Sarah Winfrey — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 08:00:11 +0000

Congratulations, you're pregnant! Even if this is exactly what you wanted, finding out you're pregnant can be stressful. After all, a new baby changes your life forever. You may need to rearrange your home, move, buy a new vehicle, and more. And even if you have all of that in place already, a new baby will completely transform your daily routine. Here's how to make room for these big changes and lower your stress at the same time. (See also: 8 Money Moves to Make When You Find Out You're Pregnant)

1. Assess your needs

Maybe you need more alone time. Maybe you need some time out with friends. Maybe you need to take regular naps, or meditate a few times each week. Take the time to figure out what you need. Think about your life, and write down what you think would help make your pregnancy more comfortable and how you can incorporate more of that into your routine. Then do it. (See also: 14 Smartphone Apps That Make Self-Care a Snap)

2. Avoid Google

Pregnancy can be a time of high anxiety because you don't want to do anything that will hurt your baby. It comes with all sorts of new physical sensations and experiences. When something feels different, or you have a question, it's natural to want immediate resolution by finding the answer yourself.

The problem with the internet, though, is that you hear about a lot of worst-case scenarios, and you expose yourself to a lot of untested information. This can cause anything from annoyance to outright panic. Instead of going to Dr. Google, find a real doctor, midwife, or doula you can trust. When questions pop up, call them instead.

3. Get more rest

Due to hormonal changes, most women feel more tired than usual, especially during the early days of their pregnancy. Instead of pushing through this, take it as in indication of what your body needs: more rest. By prioritizing rest, you'll not only give your body the energy to grow a baby, but you'll also put yourself in the best possible place to be able to approach your pregnancy with a calm and clear mind. (See also: Treat Yourself With These 7 Free Self-Care Routines)

4. Find or create a calming space

Is there a place that instantly puts you at ease? This can be anywhere from your bedroom or garden, to the local library or the spa. Wherever this place is, spend as much time there as possible while you're pregnant. You can even create a cozy space by adding your favorite books, candles, and lots of warm blankets and pillows.

Even if you can't actually go to your peaceful place because of work or other daily responsibilities, take some time regularly to visualize yourself there. Visualization can be a powerful tool, and can change the way we perceive reality. While you may not reap all the benefits of actually being somewhere relaxing, you might find yourself less stressed. (See also: 5 Ways Self Care Can Actually Save You Money)

5. Take a hike

Exercise is always good for lowering stress, and it can be especially helpful when you're pregnant. Make sure that you consult your doctor about any exercise routines you haven't yet tried but, unless you're on bedrest, taking a walk is almost never a bad idea. And 30-60 minutes of walking each day can help release endorphins in your brain, which will make you feel happier, more relaxed, and able to tackle any challenges that come your way. (See also: 6 Simple Ways to Get More Exercise Without Working Out)

6. Take time to enjoy your pregnancy

If you're feeling nervous or your pregnancy has brought up a lot of unknowns about your future, it can be hard to feel anything but dread. Set aside some time each day to remember why being pregnant is worth whatever you're going through in the moment. Soon, you'll have a child to love and nurture, and you'll get to watch them grow up. You should also keep in mind that your body is doing something truly incredible while you're going about your day. You're creating a life inside your body. That's amazing. And there are women all over the world who have gone through it, and are going through it now — so you can find comfort in knowing you're not alone in this process.

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This article is from Sarah Winfrey of Wise Bread, an award-winning personal finance and credit card comparison website. Read more great articles from Wise Bread: