I’m Alicia Claire de Mello. My skincare journey has been quite a bumpy road. I had cystic acne from the age of thirteen up until about two years ago, at nineteen. Over the years, I’ve got to know my skin pretty well, and, as someone who knows what it’s like to have not-so-great skin, I understand how important skincare and beauty products can be. So, here are a few items that I proudly swear by, which make me feel my very best.

Ole Henriksen Truth Serum

As someone who has skin that tends to be on the oily side, I used to be so scared of serums—but that’s all changed now. Serums have seriously improved the texture and tone of my skin. I use a serum both day and night, and the Ole Henriksen Truth Serum is by far my favorite. It’s been a lifesaver, and I think its results justify its price tag.

Boy Smells Candles

This doesn’t really count as a beauty product, but it’s definitely an important part of my daily routine. One day, I started researching how smells can facilitate moods, like motivation or relaxation, which has helped to level out my moods. So, whenever I’m home, I light a candle just to cultivate some good-smelling vibes. Boy Smells has some amazing scents and is definitely my favorite brand for candles.

Glossier Moisturizing Moon Mask

I have so many masks that do so many different things. My favorites are the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay and Glossier’s Moisturizing Moon Mask. I love when masks detoxify my skin but don’t dry it out. I usually put on a mask and turn on Netflix to help me decompress after a long day.

Lanolips 101 Ointment

I didn’t realize how dry my skin gets during the colder months, and my lips have really taken a hit. To remedy that, I carry around a lip balm in every single bag, and place multiple around my apartment so that one is always in reach.

Gucci Bloom

I never used to wear fragrances, but now I’m obsessed. I have a really particular scent that I like, which is more of a warm, spicy musk. Gucci Bloom has floral undertones, but also smells warm and intense, which makes it my most worn fragrance.

Words and photography, Alicia Claire de Mello.