Okay – to be honest 99% of these Amazon purchases are non-essential and more impulse buys but at least I’m acknowledging it. I was talking to people in the clinic this week and it’s funny how much of a thrill we get when a package arrives at the front door all while knowing it’s probably that bulk order of socks. PERHAPS it’s a mystery box of something thrilling! The allure is irresistable.

Speaking of mysteries… someone sent me flowers a week ago. Despite my asking on Instagram who it might be, they chose to remain anonymous. The message was filled with the kindest words and heartwarming sentiment. Whoever you are, I so appreciate you. This world needs more random acts of kindness.

Allergy Relief

This allergy season in Texas is no joke (mine have been atrocious). How is it where you are? So many patients have complained of worsened allergies recently. Some patients are awesome at doing all the things to help keep them at bay – taking a daily zyrtec/allegra/claritin/etc. and using a nose spray like flonase/nasocort (all available over the counter). Sometimes, despite those interventions, allergies STILL thrive. It’s then that we look at maybe doing allergy testing or worst case scenario – a steroid shot to help calm the inflammation. In the case that maybe you’re one of the few who doesn’t take all the things – remember that all of these medications work best when taken on a consistent basis. Taking a zyrtec here and there doesn’t give the medication the time it needs to properly help. Also, be really careful with nose sprays – your nose easily gets addicted and can make problems exponentially worse. Be sure to consult with your regular care provider when starting any medication.

It was also recently brought to my attention that some of my patients have been trying these drops called Texas Cedar Fever drops. They’ve said taking them on a consistent basis has really helped keep their allergies at bay. I personally haven’t tried these but I’ve seen it said enough now that maybe there’s something to it. I presume these work similarly to consuming locally produced honey that contains local pollens thus helping your body build an immunity.

Beauty Finds

I’ve read a lot of articles throughout quarantine surprising Amazon products – thus the impetus to write this post. I’ve seen this mask in many different articles and decided it’s time to finally try it. Be aware though that it needs to be mixed with apple cider vinegar … which I currently have not. Once I purchase some and try the mask — I’ll update this post and let you know. The reviews, however, look outstanding.

I’ve also seen this vitamin C serum raved about many times. I’ve been using for about a week now and do agree that it does an excellent job at brightening skin and reducing dark spots. I don’t break out much at all naymore but this pandemic and associated stress has done a number on my skin. I had a massive pimple on my cheekbone a few weeks ago (before I bought the patches I mention below) and it left me with a gifted dark spot, UGH. Compared to costly and similar vitamin C serums I own, this does an equally marvelous job.

Pair your skincare routine with a soothing ice roller or frozen globes – the relaxation is AMAZING, helps decrease puffiness and enhances sinus drainage.

Mop Must Have

I haven’t the proper words for how much I love this mop. Between us and the three dogs running around the house, the floors quickly get filthy. The steam helps kill any lurking germs. I like to mop at least once a week with wood cleaner or tile cleaner depending on the room – but I follow with this guy.

Office Nutrition

Now that I’m back in the clinic everyday I have to be better about actually packing a lunch and drinking water. I’m the WORST about not ordering out or just drinking coffee/tea all day. I found this salad tupperware that’s cute and clever along with a water bottle diffuser I can tote around that isn’t enormous. Now I have zero excuses 🙂

Pajamas

It’s steaming hot here in Texas and although I’ll always enjoy a cozy sweat pant or set, it’s just too dang hot to wear those around the house. I’ve found a plethora of silky and lightweight pajamas that keep you cool but also comfy – AND they’re all 35$ and under.

Pimple Patches

I love me some beauty products that live up to their hype. I’ve tried various pimple patches in the past that aren’t cheap, claim to knock your socks off but ultimately fail to deliver. Imagine my profound shock when I found these uber affordable acne patches on Amazon that seriously WOW me every time. This first one I tried were the red ones that work best on white heads or pimples you see starting to form a head. I wear it overnight and in the morning – the patch has pulled alllll of that whitehead INTO the patch! The green ones work better on the deeper, cystic acne. I’ve worn them two nights in a row and that painful, annoying blemish disappears and doesn’t leave a dark mark. I’m telling you – they’re incredible.

What are some of your recent purchases?