Each new year since we began this venture, we thoughtfully look back to see what new tries really knocked our socks off. This round-up, per usual, is collective; all three of us giving a resounding "yes!" to each item, agreeing it is worthy of the list. Happy 2025 and enjoy!
Merit Beauty Products
We cannot get enough of Merit Beauty. This clean make-up line offers products to create your entire look (think foundation to eyebrows) with an ease that meets the hustle and bustle of busy life. The application of the products is difficult to mess up, which is a big draw. Many of them are also in stick or "pot" form, making them easy to travel with and apply straight to the face. It's too hard to pick just one product, although we love the Minimalist foundation a lot and the flush balm in "cheeky" equally as much. Watch our tutorial on exactly what products we love and how we use them.
ARMRA Colostrom
Allison discovered ARMRA Colostrum via a podcast the founder, a pediatric neurologist. She wouldn't shut up about it, and Gretchen and Laura are now on their 5th tub. All three of us have noticed hair and nail growth, a decrease in bloating and an increase in energy. What is it? ARMRA is bovine, grass-fed non GMO colostrum that is an unrivaled nutrient powerhouse of over 400+ bioactive nutrients. We love the orange flavor in water or plain dry-scooped right into the mouth or in a smoothie. Find out more about ARMRA below. Use our code "GOTTATRYIT15" for 15% off your first order.
*Clean* Dry Shampoos
Once we learned that the majority of dry shampoos out there contain carcinogenic ingredients like propane, benzene and butane, we were on a mission to find clean dry shampoos that worked. We polled our followers, sourced their favorites and tried the top recs that came in. Most of them were powders and NOT in an aerosol can. We settled on these three that are each fabulous in their own right. Dae is a fabulous smelling powder that "puffs" onto hair. K18 is a liquid spray that quickly dries and provides a welcomed volume boost. And Crown Affair is a lovely-smelling powder that comes with a soft brush for root application. Click below to shop and see the products in use!
Amazon Summer Wrap Sandal
This wrap sandal from Amazon looks and feels more expensive than Amazon, and holds up over time. It comes in several colors and runs tts. The three of us (along with many of our followers) all stocked up last season leading to many being sold out in a hurry. There is now a fresh restock in all colors and sizes and we are getting ready to purchase a new pattern for the warmer months ahead...hello snake print, gold and cork!
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Perimenopause has entered the chat. Both Allison and Gretchen were experiencing symptoms of peri-meno and decided to take action by seeing a professional. Gretchen was experiencing an overall feeling of "meh" in her life. She struggled to feel emotion in most situations whether it was joy, sadness, or in between. In short, she felt emotionally flat-lined. Allison was experiencing extremely heavy periods, trouble sleeping and an overall similar feeling as Gretchen of "meh." Looking back now, she describes it as "mild depression." She would say to her self "Is this it? Is this my life?" They both got lab work done, met with a professional and fast forward, are both taking different prescribed combinations of testosterone, estrogen and progesterone and feeling much better about life. Gretchen is "seeing in color again," and Allison is sleeping better, experiencing normal periods and has her bright outlook on life back. Hear more about their experiences below. If you are experiencing symptoms similar to the above but are not sure who to see, HERE is a site where you can search for a provider by zip code. *We are not doctors. Please check with your doctor to see of HRT is right for you.
The Weighted Vest
As we enter our peri-meno era, maintaining bone density and muscle mass is a big priority. Walking, or working out with a weighted vest is proven to help keep bones strong as we age, especially in peri-meno and menopause, as estrogen levels decrease. Our favorite weighted vest from Amazon has felt so good to wear on walks, hikes, or even while working out. We use the 15 lb one. The general rule is 10-15% of your body weight, depending on your fitness level.
The Chantelle Thong
These are our favorite daily undies for 40+. This thong by Chantelle is a high-waisted thong and is a "one size fits most." That can be tough, but trust us when we say it works. All three of us love it and have three different body types and sizes. This thong is fab for under yoga pants, a dress or anything where you don't want a line. It also smooths you out in a lovely and comfortable way. These are a must try!
Revitalash Shampoo + Conditioner
We have always loved Revitalash products, but were sticking to the award-winning lash and brow enhancing products until Allison decided to try their clean thickening shampoo + conditioner. She couldn't get over the differences she was seeing and after using it consistently for a few months. Fast forward to a year later. She noticed her hair felt and looked significantly more healthy and full. It also smells great! Laura and Gretchen jumped on the bandwagon too. They both have a lot of volume to their hair and noticed a calmer, healthier look - which helps, especially in humidity! This shampoo is free of sulfate detergents and works to fortify at the cuticle level and truly works!
Clean Simple Eats Protein Powder
Given that Peri-Meno has arrived in our lives, protein intake has been something all three of us are focused on. Clean Simple Eats approached us for a partnership, and the timing was fabulous because we were on the hunt for a clean protein that we could use ourselves, but also incorporate with our families (hello, growing kiddos!) We tried several of their products and were hooked! The founders are committed to creating delicious, super clean protein powders and supplements. We all love the simply vanilla powder. Allison puts some in her iced coffee for a vanilla protein coffee, we make protein balls for our kids, or throw it in smoothies! They also have unflavored to sneak protein into waffle or pancakes for a picky kiddo. The protein chocolate peanut butter is delish with apples! We could go on. Also available at Sprouts.
The Pistola Ally High Rise Jean
When we find a good pair of jeans, we share the love! Gretchen was on a Pistola kick last year and discovered this pair. She wore them non-stop and we got many dms about them. They are high-rise (hello 40+), fitted but not too tight, offer a slight, flattering flare and show ankle when worn with a sneaker or flat, but also look great with a boot. The denim feels good and we love the hint of distress. They run tts.
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