Category: Skin / Hair / Face

  • Our Favorite Dry Shampoo!

    Our Favorite Dry Shampoo!

    Here are Today I Need A, we’ve used a LOT of dry shampoo over the years. About 6 years ago, probably right around when my second daughter was born, I started to wash my hair less mainly to improve its health, but also to save time. I had hair that was both dry and quick to get oily. And lets face it, I had two kids under 3, enough said.

    Since then, Nanette and I have both tried many different types of dry shampoo. Cheap and expensive, powders, spray cans and even a paste or two. Below we have rated the options we found to be the best over the years. We have finally found our favorite dry shampoo! Spoiler alert: My overall favorite is the Hair Dance Dry Shampoo Volume Powder and Nanette’s overall favorite is the Aveda Shampure Dry Shampoo. 🛍️ This post contains affiliate links– thank you for supporting us!

    Before you get into the ratings, remember that how you apply a dry shampoo will change its effectiveness. You should always apply and let it sit on your roots/hair for at least 30 seconds to a minute in order for it to effectively soak up the grease. Then, massage with your fingers and brush through your hair.

    Acure Dry Shampoo Powder17/20 (Comes in both Blonde and Brunette)

    Acure Dry Shampoo Powder

    Ease of Application: 4
    Some reviewers didn’t like the squeeze-bottle type application, but I actually prefer it. I find it easier to target areas I really need it than with a spray. I find dry shampoos that are in an aerosol can to dry my hair out and they almost make my hair feel dirtier. This particular formula is a little harder to work through my hair than others.
    Degreasing Ability: 4
    Works just a good at taking the grease out of my hair as others I’ve tried.
    Cost/Value: 5
    This bottle lasts me a loooooong time. I don’t use it everyday, but I would say that this bottle costs under $10 and lasts about 5 months with 2 day a week use for me.
    Texture & Volume: 4
    While I don’t see much volume from this dry shampoo, I much prefer the silky, smooth texture it gives my hair compared to aerosol dry shampoos.
    Extras: This dry shampoo also happens to be 100% vegan and natural. And, because it’s not an aerosol has non of the nasty propellants that you don’t want to be breathing in on a regular basis.


    Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk14/20 (Comes in both Blonde and Brunette)

    Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk

    Ease of Application: 4
    Standard aerosol spray can, pretty easy to use. Can be hard to focus on certain ares.
    Degreasing Ability: 4
    One of the better dry-shampoos for my oily, hair on the that is on the thinner side.
    Cost/Value: 2
    This can runs out pretty quickly and starts about $20 a bottle.
    Texture & Volume: 4
    This is the only aerosol can applicator I have tried that doesn’t make my hair feel dirtier and dry.

    Hair Dance Dry Shampoo Volume Powder – 18.5/20 – Carolyn’s Favorite

    Hair Dance Dry Shampoo Volume Powder

    Ease of Application: 5
    I love this bottle applicator. The smaller opening allows me to put the powder exactly where I need it.
    Degreasing Ability: 5
    This dry shampoo has been the BEST I’ve tried at making my hair look natural and removing the grease.
    Cost/Value: 4.5
    Because I can be very specific about where I put this powder, it lasts longer than an aerosol spray. Love it.
    Texture & Volume: 4
    I gave this shampoo a 4 because while the best at removing grease, it gives my hair just a slightly dryer texture. It might be good for adding texture if that is what you are going for, but I prefer my hair to be softer and smooth.
    Extras: This dry shampoo also happens to be 100% vegan and natural.


    Dove Refresh+Care Dry Shampoo, Volume & Fullness13.5/20

    Dove Dry Shampoo

    Ease of Application: 3.5
    This is a nice, basic dry shampoo. The aerosol allows you to get full coverage however it isn’t as easy to target smaller areas.
    Degreasing Ability: 3
    I find that I need to use a large amount of product to really degrease my hair. It does do the job and smells pretty good in the process.
    Cost/Value: 4
    One of the lowest priced dry shampoos out there. At less than $5 a bottle this is a really great option for value shoppers.
    Texture & Volume: 3
    Not super impressed with the final texture this give my hair, seems a bit too dry. It does add volume but it make hair more difficult to style.


    Batiste Clean & Classic Original Dry Shampoo18/20

    Batiste Dry Shampoo

    Ease of Application: 4
    Another standard aerosol spray can. I find this can a bit easier to use than Dove, there is a little more control and can target smaller areas easier.
    Degreasing Ability: 5
    My favorite dry shampoo in an aerosol can! You don’t need to use a lot to kill the grease in you hair and get a natural look. Warning, it can be addictive.
    Cost/Value: 5
    Great value. A bit pricer than Dove but fairly reasonable at $6 – $7 a bottle depending where you shop.
    Texture & Volume: 4
    This dry shampoo leaves your hair easy to style but still a little dry.


    amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo 16/20

    Amika perk up Dry Shampoo

    Ease of Application: 4
    Standard aerosol spray can, it is very similar to Batiste and Klorane.
    Degreasing Ability: 4
    Does the job well and will still leave you will soft hair. Don’t need to use quite as much product for results. Very light weight!
    Cost/Value: 3
    Not a fan of the price – around $25 when there isn’t a sale. Batiste is a much better deal.
    Texture & Volume: 5
    Leaves your hair quite soft and smelling amazing! One of the better shampoos for texture & volume!!


    Aveda Shampure Dry Shampoo 19/20 – Nanette’s Favorite

    Aveda Shampure Dry Shampoo

    Ease of Application: 5
    Love that this isn’t an aerosol can! You squeeze the bottle for a light mist of powder. It DOES take some practice but it works very well.
    Degreasing Ability: 5
    You don’t need much to degrease your hair. I would recommend starting off with a little and let is sit a moment. I made the unfortunate choice of using too much and ended up with severe volume – think sixties beehive.
    Cost/Value: 4
    Pricey, but this bottle will last a long time. Again, don’t go over board and you can make it last longer than any aerosol.
    Texture & Volume: 5
    Amazing volume with a silky texture.

    Other Beauty Product Suggestions

  • Grown Up Advent Calendars – Because YOU Deserve a Treat Too!

    Grown Up Advent Calendars – Because YOU Deserve a Treat Too!

    Get yours today before they sell out! We absolutely loved getting Advent Calendars as kids, it was so much fun and something to look forward to opening each night. With that in mind, we put together a list of some great grown up Advent Calendars to keep the fun and nostalgia going. 🛍️ This post contains affiliate links– thank you for supporting us.

    The Naked Marshmallow Gourmet Advent Calendar – You had me at Gourmet Marshmallows. https://amzn.to/2WW6a7h

    Marshmallow Advent Calendar

    Lindt Chocolate Advent Calendar – This is not the chocolate advent calendar from your childhood, this calendar has quality Lindt chocolate! https://amzn.to/36VCo7w

    Lindt Chocolate Advent Calendar

    Nintendo Super Mario Advent Calendar – For the kid in all of us, grab this Super Mario calendar. https://amzn.to/2X1LjQ7

    Super Mario Nintendo Advent Calendar

    RITUALS The Ritual of Advent Calendar – Bath & Body gifts in a beautiful gold tree. https://amzn.to/32xfY94

    Rituals Bath and Body Advent Calendar

    Harry Potter Candy Advent Calendar – Yes…just take my money now! shorturl.at/aDJUZ

    Harry Potter Advent Calendar

    Roger La Borde Northern Lights Pop & Slot Advent Calendar – This calendar would be cute addition to your holiday decorations! https://amzn.to/2WTogac

    Craft Northern Lights Woodland Animals Advent Calendar

    12 Days of Beauty Advent Calendar Box – Includes 12 sample size items that make trying new cosmetics a fun, holiday experience. https://goto.target.com/jaXja

    Target Beauty Advent Calendar

    Dream Big This Christmas Beauty Advent Calendar – If you love the Body Shop, you’ll love this advent calendar. shorturl.at/kwCEQ

    The Body Shop Advent Calendar

    Davids Tea 24 Days of Tea Advent Calendar 2019 – Tea lovers, get a new tea to try each day of December! https://amzn.to/2Csc9HK

    David's Tea Advent Calendar

    TweIve Days of Beauty Faves – I love trying new beauty products! https://amzn.to/2CwrCGx

    Twelve Days of Beauty Advent Calendar

    Man’Stuff by Technic 24 Day Men’s Toiletry Product Christmas Advent Calendar – Love this men’s toiletry version! https://amzn.to/2Q0jIx7

    Mens Toiletry Advent Calendar

    Mr Holmes’ Advent Calendar: 24 Solve-it-Yourself Christmas Crimes – This is such a fun idea! https://amzn.to/34JikDe

    Mystery advent calendar

    Joe & Seph’s Popcorn Advent Calendar 2019 – Popcorn goes so well with watching Holiday Movies, right? https://amzn.to/2K0KEZU

    Popcorn Advent Calendar
  • Today I Need A…Mother’s Day Gift! Our Mother’s Day Gift Guides for 2019

    Today I Need A…Mother’s Day Gift! Our Mother’s Day Gift Guides for 2019

    Mother’s Day is right around the corner, but don’t panic! We put together some gift ideas so you can shop and order with the click of a mouse. The items below are all different price points and different styles, but I can tell you that I would love to receive ANY of them! Let’s just say I already emailed my husband a link to this page. There’s a list for Amazon and a list for Target, both with easy ordering and fast shipping.

    That being said, Mother’s Day is not all about gifts and many moms would be happy to just spend the day with their family doing something relaxing while knowing that their kids and families thought about them. A homemade card, not having to make dinner, and my kids cleaning their rooms sounds like an amazing Mother’s Day to me. Last year, I asked for hydrangea flowers to plant in my garden; this year I asked for all of us to take a hike along Lake Michigan together. But, I know my husband loves to have something for me to open to help me feel appreciated. Enter this list.

    1 – For Mom’s who love wineModern Copper Stemless Wine Glasses – Chic, useful and along with a bottle of wine you know she’ll love, makes this a gift that says “Sit and relax a while – you deserve it!”
    2 – For Moms who hate to clean iRobot Roomba Vacuum – I know what you’re thinking, I can’t get a vacuum for Mother’s Day! This is definitely a gift you give only if you KNOW the woman you are buying for would appreciate it. I, for one, would love the ability to take one of my daily tasks, like vacuuming, off my list.
    3 – For Moms who love to be comfyLace back PJ’s – These are seriously cute and reviewers say they are incredibly comfortable. It’s a win-win!
    4 – For Moms who love showing off their childrenCustom Initial Necklace – This necklace is a way to personalize a gift for any mom. Whatever the number of kids, you can add a disc pendant for each.
    5 – For Moms who could use some pamperingBath Bomb Gift Set – Bath bombs are everywhere nowadays and for good reason. They feel like a small luxury at the end of a long day or week. This set comes in a super-cute gift box making it a gorgeous gift.
    6 – For Moms who love to be on trendTrendy Resin Hoop Earrings – Resin Earrings are a must-have accessory for any chic mom!
    7 – For Sentimental moms (or really any mom)Letters to My Mom Book – Kids can write letters to their Mom now for her to open later – a time capsule between mother and child. I’m not crying, you’re crying!
    8 – For Moms who love to garden or cookAeroGarden – I know it’s finally spring and many of us are planting our garden outside, but with the AeroGarden, herbs and veggies can be grown year round indoors putting dinner ingredients at your fingertips.

    1 – For Mom’s who loves to journalOne Question a Day for Moms. “What is the funniest thing your child has said recently?”, this five-year journal asks a question like this everyday giving Mom the opportunity to jot down memories she doesn’t want to forget.
    2 – For Mom’s who love wine EcoVessel PORT 10oz Insulated Stainless Steel Stemless Wine Glass. Insulated to keep wine at your desired temperature, a silicone base to keep the glass from slipping, and a 100 year warranty? What more could you ask for? I love the Gold and Blue Moonlight colors.
    3 – For Mom’s who love beauty productsTarget Beauty Box. The all natural mom will love this beauty box full of eco-conscious products.
    4 – For Mom’s who are runners or love musicAnker Wireless Earbuds. I love these wireless earbuds for running and working out, but they can be used for so much more! Listening to music or a podcast wire free makes moving about your day much easier and enjoyable.
    5 – For Mom’s who love to be comfyWomen’s Pajama Set. With 5 star reviews, these pajamas are sure to be a new favorite for bedtime.
    6 – For Mom’s who love their smoothiesNinja Smart Screen Blender DUO. This is the blender we use DAILY to make our protein smoothies. If you want to go a step further, this version, Ninja Professional 1200W Kitchen System – BL685, comes with a food processor bowl too.
    7 – For Mom’s who love jewelry with clean linesMama Bear Bolo Bracelet. A truly versatile bracelet she can wear with any outfit.
    8 – For Sentimental moms (or really any mom) Letter’s To My Mom Book. Kids can write letters to their Mom’s now for her to open later – a time capsule between mother and child. I’m not crying, you’re crying… again!

    *affiliate links

  • Curated Mother’s Day Gift Box for only $54.95

    Curated Mother’s Day Gift Box for only $54.95

    Need to find a Mother’s Day gift for someone special? Here is a great idea for you – Causebox.

    I ordered their Spring box and am absolutely obsessed! Every season they curate an amazing box of limited edition items from socially conscious brands ~ every box is filled with items totaling at least $200 in value.

    Their Spring Box does not disappoint. If you purchase the monthly subscription the price is $54.95 per box, if you decide on an annual subscription you save $5 making each box only $49.95 and you get to customize some of the items.

    The box I ordered had the following items in it:
    1. Ettitude Bamboo Lyocell Eye Mask, $15 retail value
    2. Luxe Charm Bracelet by Marina De Buchi, $37 retail value
    3. Silky Scarf by Cleobella, $52 retail value
    4. Wyld French Pink Clay Konjac Sponge, $16.90 retail value
    5. Glass Ladder & Co. Megan Portfolio Clutch, $120.00 retail value
    6. Cosmedix Glow Bamboo Brightening Mask, $54 retail value
    7. Kalos Mist Congeniality Elixir Tonight Mist, $22 retail value
    8. Altru Macrame Plant Hanger, $14 retail value

    So go ahead treat your mother (or yourself) to a fun and luxurious gift!

    *affiliate links

  • Beauty Products We’re LOVING for Spring!

    Beauty Products We’re LOVING for Spring!

    We both use this amazing Face Exfoliator – Vasanti BrightenUp!
    Nanette swears by this all-in-one Tinted Moisturizer, Sunscreen and Serum – Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25+
    Feel like you’re at the beach with this Coconut Water and Sea Algae Face Wash – Pacifica Sea Foam Complete Face Wash
    Carolyn loves hows this Exfoliating Body Polish smells and leaves her skin super smooth – Dove Body Polish