When she “stumbled upon” the blowout concept five years ago, Tess Belsari says she knew one day she’d want to make a business out of it. Given her upbringing—raised by a mother who owned spas and salons around the world—hairstyling seemed a natural fit; though she graduated with a psychology degree, her passion for beauty crept back into her career. “Seeing the joy I can bring to someone by filling a void in the beauty market, this was an ideal and natural endeavor for me,” she tells us.
After years of traveling overseas to research beauty trends and months of training to perfect the technique used at her chic 21st Street salon, Belsari has tried almost every hair and makeup product out there. Here are the five she can’t put down.
1) Eufora Urgent Repair shampoo
Tess says: “This makes my dry, frizzy hair smooth and manageable—you can tell the difference from the first shampoo. Plus, who doesn’t want amazing hair while helping the environment?” $21.32 at Amazon.
2) Cetaphil moisturizing lotion
Tess says: “I’ve tried every scented, fancy, and non-fancy lotion out there. My dermatologist recommended Cetaphil one winter, and I find myself coming back to this product no matter what I try.” $9.29 at Target.
3) L’Oreal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold hairspray
Tess says: “This spray has the best hold, and its smell makes life more pleasant.” $14.99 at Ulta.
4) Batiste dry shampoo
Tess says: “My blowouts last several days longer, thanks to this amazing product. And I’ve tried every dry shampoo out there.” $8.29 at Walgreens.
5) Rosebud Perfume Co. Rosebud Salve
Tess says: “This could be used with a lip liner or on top of lipstick, or alone. It’s also great on elbows and skin if needed—complete lifesaver.” $6 at Sephora.