A former Style Network exec, the founder of The List Collective, HuffPo contributor and mother of two stays chic with the help of these top product picks

Elaine Bauer BrooksMorning routine:
I confess to doing a bit more (and spending a bit more) in the morning than I used to—what are you gonna do?! I start with my Colbert MD Intensify Facial Discs for a nice exfoliation—it feels so good. Then, I use the Obagi Professional-C Serum 20%, which instantly brightens my skin. Finally, I put a layer of Perricone MD Acyl-Glutathione and another of Perricone MD Neuropeptide Firming Moisturizer. Once my skin is feeling dewy again, I do simple and natural makeup that basically includes Bobbi Brown Tinted Moisturizer in Medium, Cle De Peau Concealer thinly applied with a brush (crucial for dark circles like mine) and a little bit of mascara and lip gloss. For me, less is definitely more.

Overnight skin ritual:
I love to treat my computer-abused eyes to Shiseido’s Pure Retinol Instant Treatment Eye Mask. These little sheets are pricey, but they soothe and moisturize so well—it even helps my concealer soak into my skin instead of sitting on top. I also keep my Perricone MD Deep Moisture Therapy by my bed at night. Embarrassing but true, there’s nothing better than slathering a thirsty face while watching my guilty pleasure, The Real Housewives—almost any city will do!

Who cuts/colors your hair:
Neil George Salon is my go-to spot for primping. Amanda George has been coloring my hair for years. She is so very talented and has become a great friend. The fabulous Alissa Teitgan, also at Neil George, is my stylist and I love her as well. She really wants her clients to look and feel good—it’s genuinely important to her, and she succeeds!

Hair habit:
I can’t live without my Philip B. Maui Wowie Beach Mist. A little “spritz, spritz” is definitely a ritual, along with my Kérastase Elasto Curl wave enhancer. I’ve strayed but always return to that product for as long as I can remember!

Favorite eye look:
I love a charcoal smoldering eye on others and if I could cast myself in my own Sliding Doors, I’d try being that girl. But for me, it’s always natural. I like soft and pretty eyes with a dark lash and strong brow. I use an angled brush and MAC’s Blonde 21 powder.

Go-to lipstick:
I’ve gotten into these Revlon Just Bitten Lip Stains. A stain is such a great way to apply and go—it’s a no-fuss routine that works for me. I’m still testing colors, looking for something a little more light and breezy for daytime. I hope they come up with more shades!

Nail color of the moment:
I have two young kids, which means I’m hard on my hands—I’m always digging into bottomless bags, cleaning goo, washing dishes…sounds glamorous, right? So most days, I use a single coat of Sheswai Lacquer in Perfecto. It’s so clean and pretty and lasts without showing chips. When I’m looking for something new, I browse through Deborah Lippmann‘s incredible line of colors. I could take a bath in Waking Up In Vegas, it’s so pretty. Lippmann’s Single Ladies is for when I’m feeling fierce.

Signature scent:
I’m not much of a perfume person at all. I like fresh, clean, natural scents. If I were going to wear it, I would choose a scent from the botanical line Strange Invisible. But to be honest, I just don’t wear it. That said, the smell of L’Occitane Verbena Lotion smells like my honeymoon, and that always puts me in a good mood.

“Never without” product:
I’m never without Neutrogena Make-Up Remover Cleansing Towelettes for unseemly cases of midday mascara drips! And I have tiny tubes of Aquaphor everywhere.

Secret to staying young and beautiful:
Sleep! I’m sure it will pay off when I finally figure out how to get some. Until then, I’ll just keep laughing—I figure it’s a pretty good substitute.

The List Collective

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