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A couple years ago, I wrote about a hand soap that has “reached cult status in my household,” my household consisting of me. But it sparked the idea to share products that our editors consider to be cult status, even if it’s just among ourselves. These are items that we’ve been using for years and will continue to use forever. And we’re sharing them with you. Join our cult.
Our skincare routine non-negotiables…
“When it comes to my morning skincare routine, I wash my face and apply creams that my dermatologist has supplied. So I’m very on that prescription grind, but there are a few outliers that have made it into my routine that I absolutely swear by and plan to purchase on repeat, forever. Firstly, Prequel’s Half & Half, followed by its AM/PM face moisturizer. Both are so sensitive and calming. Then I’ll typically ice roll to help diminish any morning puffiness. This one from Amazon is the most basic option out there, but it works like a charm and proves that you don’t need expensive beauty tools. Lastly, I throw on some eye patches to finish it off. These are biodegradable and contain bio-peptides to smooth out the under-eye area — I love them.” —Alexandra Napoli
A new hand soap we’re already calling a classic…
“I have been known to partake in a fancy hand soap — it’s what started this series in the first place — so when Nécessaire released one, I knew I had to get my hands on it (and in it). It’s definitely more than I’ve ever spent on soap, but the bottle is a lot bigger than you think and also incredibly chic, making it a perfect splurge for a guest bathroom. The santal scent is woodsy and comforting. But what sets this product apart is the formula — it’s thicker than most, so a little goes a long way. It's made with panthenol and niacinamide, so it’s moisturizing your hands while it works. I’ll take my skincare wherever I can get it.” —Martha Upton
The best light bulbs for lamps…
“I am a lamp person. I can’t stand to have the big light on, especially at night. But I’m also picky about the type of bulb I’m using — nothing too bright or too fluorescent will do. After a ton of research and testing, these are perfect. The soft white light casts the cozy warm glow of my dreams, and the medium base seems to fit in any type of lamp. They’re also energy saving, so you best believe I’m replacing all my bulbs with these.” —Martha Upton
Our new snacking addiction…
“I’ve never been one to snack on a handful of nuts; I’ve always found them deeply unsatisfying and not flavorful enough. But I am now a cashew convert, thanks to these dill pickle cashews. I love eating them between meals or throwing them on a salad or poke bowl. Just add these to your cart, trust me.” —Martha Upton
A body wash that’s safe for sensitive skin…
“My mom and I both struggle with eczema, and she recently recommended this Gentle Body Wash from Vanicream. It’s quickly become an all-time favorite of mine because it’s basic, no frills, and doesn’t irritate my skin. It’s free from pretty much every kind of irritant (including lanolin), so it prevents flare-ups for me.” —Margo Ghertner
A splurge-worthy pair of sunglasses…
“One of the first sample sales I ever went to in New York was for Krewe. I still wear the ones I bought (they were similar to this pair), so I decided to grab another, since I know they hold up well over the years. I love that this new aviator style is more refined than the ones I’m seeing everywhere, but they still have a slightly sporty silhouette. They’re also unisex, which makes sense since my boyfriend can’t stop stealing them. They’re an investment, for sure, but any pair of sunglasses that’s comfortable, durable, and I actually want to wear is worth it to me.” —Martha Upton
Our emotional support summer bag…
“This is my fourth year with my beloved Baggu Nylon Mini Shoulder Bag. In my eyes, it’s the perfect summer bag because it’s small yet spacious, and has a substantial strap. I have the (now discontinued) Avocado shade, but color aside, I find that it’s perfect for days where I know I’ll be running around and I want to carry a lot, without taking a full tote. Not to mention, the nylon material means it’ll pack easily and you don’t have to be overly precious with it.” —Margo Ghertner
The body lotion we can’t live without…
“I feel like I’ve tried every body lotion in existence, and none are as good as Cyklar’s. I first fell in love with the Sacred Santal scent — a sultry, earthy, slightly vanilla-esque fragrance that literally makes me feel euphoric when I open the bottle — and I’ve since collected every other fragrance (no joke). My current favorite is the new Rose Bud scent, which literally smells like a rose just picked from the earth — it’s fresh and green, not that sickly, powdery fake rose scent. The actual lotion has a fluffy, decadent texture that thoroughly moisturizes my dry skin and doesn’t feel sticky. I live in fear of these products being discontinued, so I stock up regularly.” —Caroline Goldstein
Exfoliating pads from a brand we love…
“I’ve written about PCA Skin before because I simply cannot stop raving about their easy, effective formulas and wide range of products. Their toner and collagen hydrator immediately rose to cult status in my home last year, and I’m still a fan. This month, I’m adding their new Triple Exfoliation Peel Pads to the mix. These pads slough away dull skin, while actively calming redness and supporting the skin barrier. They’re easy to use and my skin can already feel the difference.” —Alessandra Rey
Our new favorite clothing brand…
“I only discovered Petal & Pup this year, but I immediately knew I’d become a cult follower. I got this two-piece embroidered set and lace maxi dress for the summer, and I’m already eyeing the Sonny Maxi Dress and Pomoa Pants for my next haul. I’m curvy and top-heavy, so I’m pretty picky about size and fit. Everything was comfortable and fit extremely well, even without trying them on before ordering. I’m officially a convert.” —Alessandra Rey