Other Beauty Brands I’m Loving: Affordable Winter Skincare for Dry, Sensitive Skin

Ciao, Beautiful!

Like you, I’m incredibly busy, and that’s not changing anytime soon. So if a product doesn’t genuinely make my life easier, I won’t use it… and I know you won’t either.

Before we get started, I want to be completely transparent: I don’t get paid by these brands to mention them. Some of the links in this post are Amazon affiliate links, which simply means if you choose to purchase, it supports my work at no extra cost to you. I only share products I’ve personally used, loved, or confidently recommend to my esthetic clients.

When we had our brick-and-mortar space, showing up polished and professional mattered. For me, that included regularly getting my nails done. What I didn’t fully understand at the time — and what many people don’t talk about — is how compromised your nails can become from frequent professional services. Repairing that damage can take months… sometimes longer.

In the past, I relied heavily on professional manicures and later worked on repairing the damage with treatments like Nailtiques Formula 2. It helped restore strength while my nails recovered, and I paired it with consistent use of nail oil throughout the day.

Here’s something most people don’t tell you: when your nails feel dry, ridged, or brittle, it’s often not just the nail itself — it’s the skin underneath the nail. That’s why nail oils and occlusives are so effective. They help lock in moisture where it actually matters.

A quick cuticle hack I swear by: if your cuticles ever get severely dry or cracked, sleep with Aquaphor Healing Ointment on them at night and use your nail oil during the day. It makes a huge difference.

These days, I’ve also been loving Nail Aid products. They’re affordable, use better ingredients than most nail brands at this price point, and — most importantly — they actually work. If you want healthy, presentable nails without salon upkeep, they’re an easy win.

If you caught my recent post about dry heels, you already know I’m very serious about urea. I use a 20% Urea Cream at night on my heels, and it’s hands-down the best price I’ve found for something that truly softens cracked skin. As a bonus, it comes with little socks to help seal everything in — which makes the results even better.

I’m currently enjoying my newly restored, smoother heels that no longer scratch Alex when we’re lying in bed… which feels like a personal victory.

For body texture and bumps, I’m currently using Remedy, and I love it because it contains urea and retinol — a powerful combo for smoothing without being overly complicated.

When it comes to cleansing, especially for sensitive or compromised skin, I keep coming back to Aveeno Calm + Restore Cleanser. It’s one of the most gentle cleansers I’ve found, and I regularly recommend it to my esthetic clients who need something calming and barrier-friendly.

For dry hands — and to help prevent my eczema from flaring back up — I’m using Cetaphil Advanced Relief Cream with Shea Butter. It’s simple, effective, and does exactly what it’s supposed to do.

Now, let’s talk eyes… because let’s be honest, they’re everything.

One of my favorite eye-area hacks is something so simple: an eyelash curler. Early in my freelance makeup career, I decided I didn’t want to risk tugging on my clients’ lashes with traditional curlers — especially brides. While they do work, they can be uncomfortable and cause watery eyes, which no one wants before walking down the aisle.

That’s when I switched to a heated eyelash curler, and I’ve been using one for over 20 years. The original version I owned isn’t available anymore, but I found a look-a-like on Amazon with great reviews that I think you’ll love.

For sunscreen, I’ve recently found an amazing dupe for those pricey Supergoop formulas — and the best part? It’s under $10 at Trader Joe’s! It gives that lightweight, protective feel you expect from a high-end sunscreen without the hefty price tag. It’s hydrating enough to wear over your favorite moisturizer, doesn’t feel greasy or heavy (especially if your skin leans dry or sensitive), and makes daily sun protection feel effortless — which, let’s be honest, is half the battle.

Even in winter, sun protection still matters — but so does hydration. Cold air, heaters, and wind can quietly dry the skin out, which is why I stay very intentional about how I moisturize my body this time of year.

In the warmer months, I still enjoy Nivea Skin Firming & Toning Gel-Cream. Yes, the blue color looks a little sci-fi, and while I’m always skeptical of “firming” claims, I do notice my skin feels more hydrated and slightly smoother when I use it consistently — especially for the price. It absorbs quickly, doesn’t feel greasy under clothes, and is easy to keep in rotation when you want hydration without heaviness.

That said, when winter really sets in and my skin needs more comfort and barrier support, I reach for Cetaphil Body Lotion. It’s one of the most reliable, no-nonsense moisturizers out there, and it helps keep dryness and eczema from creeping back in. I usually buy it at Costco because the price can’t be beat, and it’s something I never want to run out of during the colder months.

Here’s a little body-care truth bomb: most of what makes your skin look better is hydration, not some miracle ingredient that’s heavily marketed to you.

One last favorite — and this came straight from my dermatologist. If you struggle with unwanted veins, she recommends compression socks. I’ll admit, I was shocked at how expensive some options were. After reading reviews, I tried a 3-pack from Amazon, and they absolutely get the job done. Best part? They were under $20.

I’ll be sharing more of my “other faves” moving forward because my goal is always to make your life easier — whether that’s through my restorative products or other things I genuinely love and use.

When I add new favorites, I simply update this same post. So when you see it pop back up at the top of your feed, you’ll know there’s something new I’m loving and using.

Here's the direct link to my faves: https://www.amazon.com/shop/jentriquinn?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfjentriquinn_BSJQSJFKKQAMNHC0H5F0&ccs_id=043db55e-d4a0-4981-b513-ff240d503b87

If it helps me, maybe it’ll help you too.

Remember, the more you know, the more you glow.

With love,
Jentri

P.S. If you’re dealing with dry, scaly, or eczema-prone skin and feel like nothing else truly helps, my Whipped Body Butter is a beautiful next step. It’s made with nourishing natural cocoa butter and melts into the skin without ever feeling sticky or greasy, offering long-lasting comfort exactly where you need it most.