People in the beauty industry get tons of goods to test out, so when someone spends their own money on something that they’ve run out of, you know it’s good. In this series, we give beauty buffs $100, and ask them how they’d spend it on the best-of-the-best cosmetics from around the internet.
Ray of sunshine: That’s how one would describe Herbal Essences celebrity stylist Bridget Brager, whose happy, easygoing look book reads like a most-wanted hairstyles list. She’s mastered the art of the twist, has matte bends down pat, and even tousles dudes’ hair (like Chris Pratt’s) into perfection.
And with that same versatility, she gives glossy magazine shoots grit while keeping red carpet hair polished but piled with personality. It’s no doubt a philosophy—every woman surely tries it out at some point—and one that Brager’s A-list roster (including January Jones, Jenna Dewan, and Margot Robbie) rock on the reg.
And the best part? Getting the look doesn’t doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
Keep scrolling for how Brager would spend a Benjamin on beauty.
Herbal Essences bio:renew Blue Ginger and Micellar Water Shampoo and Conditioner, $5 each
“The shampoo-conditioner duo is the most brilliant I’ve had in my shower in a long time. It not only smells amazing, but the micellar water technology actually cleanses my hair without drying it out,” she says. “The formula is packed with antioxidants, aloe, and sea kelp to nourish and smooth hair and this collection is super lightweight. I can’t live without it at this point!”
CoverGirl Super Sizer Mascara, $6
“This is simply fantastic. It doesn’t run or flake, and it stays put and lasts all day,” she tells me. “I’ve tried a lot of mascaras, but nothing beats it!”
Slip Silk Pillow Case, $79
“A must for every woman and man alike. A silk pillow case helps to prevent wrinkles and fine lines,” Brager says. “I’m a belly/face sleeper (who’s with me?) It also reduces breakage and loss of hair, which we all need in our lives.”
Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer in Raisin, $5
“This is my go-to ‘turn-up-your-natural-lip-color-a-notch’ lipstick, all while it protects and softens.
Want to know how other pros shop for beauty for less than $100? Here’s how hair pro Mark Townsend does it and these are makeup artist Katey Denno’s go-to products.
Sign Up for Our Daily Newsletter
Get all the latest in wellness, trends, food, fitness, beauty, and more delivered right to your inbox.
Got it, you've been added to our email list.
