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We’ll admit it: One major perk of our job as editors is that we get to try out tons of products to let you know if they’re truly worth your hard-earned money. We’re also just avid shoppers, so in the spirit of tossing gatekeeping to the curb, we’re sharing a few standout favorites from the past month that we usually reserve for the group chat. Welcome to the inside scoop.
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A popcorn maker we didn't know we needed...
I got this for my boyfriend when we moved in together. He pops fresh popcorn at least 1-2 times a week, and insists on making it on the stove. At first I thought the entire behavior was so extra, but it's always delicious so I eventually gave in to the ritual. This manual popper is cute, makes even, non-burned popcorn every single time, and is easy to clean. He barely has any kernels left over, maybe 1-2 unpopped, but the entire experience is quick and easy. Altogether it takes five minutes to make a fresh batch of popcorn. The butter is my favorite option; it's the closest to theater-level I've ever tasted. Get this as a housewarming gift or for a family who does regular movie nights. Buying kernels over time is way cheaper than those lesser-quality microwave bags. –Alexandra Napoli ($213, Popsmith)
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The GOAT of body oils...
I know I’ve talked about this before, but Bio-Oil is amazing. I feel like I’m somehow clumsier now than when I was a kid; I’m always accidentally burning myself with the curling wand or hitting my shin on something. And I don’t particularly care for the ensuing scars that make me look like I just finished soccer practice and am enjoying my orange slices. So I started applying Bio-Oil to my scars right after I shower, and they are fading like I never imagined. In fact, most of them are completely gone. I’m told the magic in the bottle is vitamin E, and the reason it smells so good is the chamomile and lavender oils. Whatever it is, this stuff works. –Martha Upton ($11.12, Amazon)
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A moisturizer we use all over...
This sensitive-skin version of Embrylisse’s Lait Crème has officially become my new favorite winter moisturizer. It’s fragrance-free, gentle on my skin, and I love that I can use it as a moisturizer, face mask, makeup remover, and body cream. A multipurpose product means I’m actually reaching for it multiple times per day. An added perk: It isn’t greasy and absorbs quickly. –Margo Ghertner ($32.00, Amazon)
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A pair of just-right leggings...
These leggings are perfect in every way. They're warm enough to wear for errands in the freezing weather, but they're appropriately sweat-wicking for workouts. They're very stretchy, mold to your shape, and have that buttery-soft material that feels like a gentle hug (not that cold, slippery material I personally loathe). The 7/8 length is perfect for my 5-foot frame. –Caroline Goldstein ($44.97+, Athleta)
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A pajama set that makes us feel put-together...
I never realized how much I needed to elevate my pajama game until I tried this set from Neendi. The silky-soft material is so luxurious; you can literally feel the quality with every wear. Plus, the patterns are so fun. It’s like I’ve completely transformed my sleeping experience — and now I’m inspired to revamp my entire pajama drawer and finally retire those old high school T-shirts (we listen and we don't judge). –Sarai Thompson ($128, Neendi)
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A candle that's getting us through cold weather...
This year, I'm trying to focus on romanticizing winter. I live in NYC, which means I don't really see the sun until about April, so you can imagine my challenge here. Yankee Candle's new Hello, Italy! collection is my latest hack. Each scent transports you to the Amalfi Coast or a Roman piazza. I can't decide if I love the smoothness of the Pistachio Latte scent or the Capri Glow scent more, but this entire collection is a wanderluster's dream and I'll be burning these year-round. -Alessandra Rey ($31, Yankee Candle)
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