This Not That: 2025 Top Picks

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As 2025 winds down, I’ve been thinking about the products that truly earned their spot in my routine this year. From skincare breakthroughs to haircare heroes (and even a few wellness staples), these are the items that made a lasting impact. If you’re looking for game-changing additions to your beauty and wellness lineup, here are my top picks—no particular order, just pure love. Honestly, if you've been following me for awhile, none of these should be too surprising.

1. Tie: Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum + ma:nyo Bifida Biome Complex Ampoule

These two were my hydration powerhouses. Glow Serum gave me that glass-skin vibe, while ma:nyo’s Bifida Ampoule strengthened my barrier like nothing else. Together? Chef’s kiss. I liked using Beauty of Joseon in the AM and ma:nyo in the PM.

2. Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Cream

I’ve tried countless barrier creams, but Illiyoon was the surprise MVP. Rich and nourishing without the heavy, sticky feel—and the dewy finish? Unmatched. Bonus: the price point is shockingly good.

3. Willit Casual Jogger Pants

Not beauty, but worth mentioning because comfort is part of wellness. These pants became my work-from-home uniform. Stylish, soft, and versatile—what more could you want?

4. Milky Toner (Tie: Byoma & TirTir)

Adding a milky toner changed the game for me. Byoma = hydration powerhouse. TirTir = luminous finish that makes me skip highlighter. Honestly, I can’t choose—they both deserve the crown.

5. Tranexamic Acid + Azelaic Acid + Tretinoin Combined Prescription

Even after nearly a decade on Tret, introducing Azelaic Acid and Tranexamic Acid was a revelation. My skin’s glow is next-level—people literally stop me to ask what I’m using. This combo is my holy grail and I love that it's an all in one.

6. Aveeno Apple Cidar Vinegar Clarifying Shampoo

I didn’t realize how much buildup my hair had until this gem came along. Most clarifying shampoos strip your hair, but Aveeno nailed it: deep clean without damage. Forever favorite.

7. Sports Research Magnesium Supplements

One of my favorite top performers. Sleep, stress, muscle recovery—magnesium does it all. If you’re not taking it yet, consider this your sign.

8. Epres Bond Repair

Finally—pre-wash bond repair treatment that delivers! Easy, effective, and leaves my hair shiny and strong. Huge win for 2025.

9. Thorne Creatine

For energy, strength, and overall wellness, creatine is a staple whether you lift or not. Thorne’s formula is clean and reliable—perfect for anyone looking to level up their fitness game.

10. Heimish SPF

My perfect dupe for Colorescience SPF: lightweight, protective, and flawless under makeup. Harder to find these days, so stock up while you can!

11. Lancome Cils Booster XL Mascara Primer

This little step makes even drugstore mascara look luxe. If you’re skipping primer, you’re missing out on next-level lashes.

✨Honorable Mentions✨

Red light therapy panel and foam minoxidil weren’t new purchases for me this year, but they remain two of my all-time favorites.

Final Thoughts

2025 was all about simplifying routines while delivering real results. These picks earned their spot in my rotation, and I’ll be carrying them into 2026 without question. If you’ve tried any of these—or have your own holy grails—drop them in the comments. Here’s to another year of glowing skin, healthy hair, and beauty that works as hard as we do!