2018

Skincare

Night Time Skin Treatments, Sleep Masks and More

April 26, 2018

I have typically had a low maintenance skincare routine for night but in the last few years I’ve tried to up my game for night time treatments. As I’ve aged I’ve found my skin needs an added boost of moisture whether it’s for the face, lips or body. When we sleep we lose moisture and if you add a heater or air conditioner to the mix skin can become extra dry. I prefer lightweight products so they don’t get sticky or feel heavy. In the past my favorite night treatments were the Kate Somerville DermalQuench Liquid Lift +Retinol and her RetAsphere 2-in-1 Retinol Night Cream. I used them religiously and used up multiple bottles but eventually decided to try new things.

In the last year I’ve become really interested in sleep masks and oils. After months of testing I have a roundup of things I’ve tried in the last year. Some I’ve used up entirely while others I’ve been testing for a few months. In terms of skin type, I’m normal combination but in recent months it has been dry due to the weather and water in Florida is kinda harsh! My preference for night time skincare is something that feels weightless but adds enough moisture to remove any dry or tight feeling. Scents are also really important to me as some smells can interfere with my sleep.

Sleeping Masks

For the longest time I thought “sleep masks” were a fancy name for night cream/lotion but they really are different in texture and feel. There are a wide range of sleep masks that will do different things. The ones I’ve tried have a lighter weight feel compared to a cream. A lot of the ones I’ve tested have a gel or jelly like texture which has a less emollient finish so it doesn’t get all over your pillow or hair while you sleep. With all the sleeping masks I’ve tried I find a little goes a very long way. They usually come with a spatula to apply and some I feel like I can use every night regularly and barely make a dent even after several months. Some brands recommend you stir or mix before applying as the ingredients can separate or settle naturally.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Sleeping Mask * ($45 for 2.7 oz/80 ml) – This is my favorite sleeping mask that I’ve tried to add bounce and moisture to the skin. I loved it so much I’ve probably bought at least a dozen in the mini size to give to my friends and also a few to giveaway here! They call it radiance in a jar and I think it’s just that. For me it’s lightweight but hydrating. Smells delicious. Has hyaluronic acid, AHAs and watermelon extract. It softens and hydrates the skin overnight.
- Ingredients listed at here
Erno Laszlo Hydra-Therapy Memory Sleep Mask * ($90 for 40 ml/1.35 fl oz) – This is one I found a little too rich for me. If you have normal to dry skin or don’t mind something a tad bit sticky this one is great. It’s a memory sleep mask that I found works to calm redness, remove dry patches and smooth the skin. I’m super picky with any kind of texture and it feels like a mask on the skin when I fall asleep. However when I wake up, skin is refreshed, more plump/firm and ultra smooth. This has prickly pear extract, green ginger extract and kelp extract.
- Ingredients listed at here
Omorovicza Midnight Radiance Mask ($125 for 1.7 oz) – This is a brightening mask and it does give the skin a really fresh glow when you use it overnight. I found this super lightweight – you only need to apply a thin layer and it almost feels like water. I haven’t noticed any of my sunspots or discoloration disappear with this, but in general the face looks brighter. The active ingredients are sand lily and salicylic acid to gently exfoliate the skin overnight. After using this I wake up feeling like the skin is truly rebalanced – not oily or dry. It’s very expensive but a little goes a VERY long way.
- Ingredients list here
Kiehl’s Ginger Leaf and Hibiscus Firming Mask ($54 for 3.4 oz/100 ml) – This is one of the newest masks from Kiehl’s. It’s an overnight mask that has a cream texture with a velvelty finish. The hibiscus flowers close at night and this is in the mask to help preserve moisture. The ginger leaf softens the skin and fine lines. I’ve started to develop more noticeable lines on my forehead and this mask definitely helps to soften them. The wrinkles are something I feel like botox could help, but I’m really scared of needles and worry that once I start it’s something I’ll have to keep doing to maintain. I will probably try it eventually, but for now this mask has really helped to plump and firm the skin. In terms of moisture I’d say it’s moderate. If you only need a lightweight product and not a huge amount of moisture this is a great one to try.
- Ingredients listed at here
Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask ($26 for 15 g) – Hands down one of my favorite night lip treatments. I’ve used up several tubes of the clear one. Right now I have the tinted options in Champagne and Maple. It hugs the lips and hydrates unlike any other balm.
- Ingredients listed at Sephora

As you can see below these look barely used but I assure you I have been using them for months (with the exception of the Kiehl’s mask because it just launched recently). A little truly goes a very long way – especially if you use the spatulas that come with the masks.

Night Cream and Oils

Night Creams and Oils are what I’ve traditionally gravitated towards in the past. All of the ones listed below I’ve used up entirely. Notes on which ones worked best for me and whether or not I’ll repurchase.

111Skin Celestial Black Diamond Retinol Oil * ($230 for 1 oz/30 ml) – This is an oil I received as a press sample a year ago. It’s one of the most expensive oils I’ve tried and has 1% pure retinol oil. I usually can’t tolerate retinol products. This and the ones from Kate Somerville are the only ones I’ve been able to use. This one from 111Skin really works to help the skin speed up the resurfacing process, reduce fine lines and wrinkles. They recommend starting up to 3 times per week and increase frequency to every other night. I kept this at 2-3 times per week until I used it up. It lasted a very long time for me. I loved this because it absorbed nicely, smoothed the skin, reduced breakouts and added a glow. I’m not sure I will purchase a second tube.
- Ingredients listed here
Caudalie Vinoperfect Overnight Renewal Cream * ($59 for 1.3 oz/40 ml) – I also received this as a press sample a little over a year ago. I feel like I neglect Caudalie because of all the other things I want to try, but I’ve been such a huge fan of their skincare and body care. This is the best gentle night cream I’ve used. It has glycolic acid to also help brighten and retexturize the skin but it’s very gentle and non-irritating. This is supposed to help with sunspots and melasma – it did work for me to gently reduce sunspot darkness. I will be repurchasing this week.
- Ingredients listed at here
Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate ($47 to $73) – Probably my favorite night oil. I’ve used up several bottles as it’s a great oil to use at night to help replenish the skin. It helps to rebalance and hydrate the skin in the most amazing way I’ve ever tried. I’m trying to get my husband to start using it at night. I will always be repurchasing this.
- Ingredients listed at here
L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Oil * ($99 for 1 fl oz) – This has been a favorite for years. It’s not technically designed for night but I use it occasionally at night because it hydrates the skin, adds a beautiful glow and smells lovely.
- Ingredients listed here

Miscellaneous

A few other items I love to use at night. For body or hands I’ve always been more consistent about using product. I feel like my hands are prone to getting dry. Some of the things I’ve had in rotation:

L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Eye Balm * ($94 for 15 ml) – This is a gentle eye treatment that doesn’t creep into my eyes. It’s emollient and instantly refreshes the skin around the eye area. I’ve normally used the Immortelle Precious Eye Balm and Immortelle Divine Eyes from L’Occitane but this is one I’ve had in rotation for a little over a month now. I’ll do a more detailed report once I’ve used it up, but I love the way it feels.
La Mer Eye Concentrate ($205 for 15 ml) – I bought this during the Sephora sale so I’ve only used it 3x so far. I will have to use it more to give a proper review but so far no irritation, no stinging and it has a very smooth feel. Will review sometime in the future.
- Ingredients listed here
Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado ($29 for 0.5 oz) – This is a super creamy and thick eye treatment that feels like a mask for the eyes. It’s one of the most hydrating creams I’ve tried and has a thick feel but doesn’t feel super greasy. Since it’s on the rich side I’ve used this at night. It does a good job at moisturizing. I used this up all the way, I’m not sure it’s something I will repurchase, but I love that it’s a very affordable option that works.
- Ingredients listed here
Fresh Black Tea Age-Delay Body Cream * ($69 for 200 ml/6.7 fl oz) – This is the newest from Fresh Beauty and I’m 100% obsessed. I’ve used it for around 3 weeks now and love the fresh black tea and cucumber scent that it has. I’ve noticed with exposure to heat, sun and Florida air my legs get dried out more easily. This is a nice smooth cream that instantly comforts itchy dry skin and adds life back into the body. It’s moisturizing but not heavy and has a nice dry down so I don’t stick to my sheets at night.
- Ingredients listed here
Chanel Fresh Body Cream ($130 for 150 g) – This is my favorite night cream for the body because it’s lightweight, feels cool on the skin and has the freshest clean scent. If you have super dry skin you will need something heavier. This works for me day or night – it layers nicely with any fragrance too. For me I often only need a light veil of moisture on the arms and legs and this does just that. This is my third tub. For hands I also love the La Creme Main because it has a velvety non-sticky finish. They just launched a No 5 L’Eau version which I’m so exited to try.
Deborah Lippmann Cuticle Oil ($20 for 0.5 oz) – This has been something I’ve used since the before my blogging days. It has pure white jojoba oil, vitamin E and coconut oil. I love using this at night on the cuticles, I don’t use it everyday although I should. You can see my full hand and nail care routine here.

If you’re looking for some night treatments whether it’s an oil or sleep mask I hope this roundup helped you! If you have any favorite skincare you swear by or love for night let me know in the comments!

Press samples have a * next to them. Other items purchased by me.

25 Comments

Base Makeup Bobbi Brown

Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation Review + Swatches

April 25, 2018

Today I have a review and swatches of all the shades in the Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation ($46 for 1 fl oz/30 ml). It’s been a while since I’ve tried Bobbi Brown foundations. I remember using her original Foundation Stick and Oil Free Foundation many years ago. I loved her color range and the fact that she had so many yellow-based tones which were perfect for me. She reformulated her foundations a number of times and there was an ingredient that caused me to have an allergic reaction in many of them. Over the years there have been quite a few new base launches and I simply felt overwhelmed by all the options. The Bobbi Brown team sent the newest base for me to try. Her Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation has SPF 15 and is a full-coverage natural matte base that still allows skin to breathe. It comes in 30 shades and the shade range is quite impressive. I have swatches of all the colors to share today along with thoughts on testing this base.

Quick take is that this is an excellent full-coverage base. I was very relieved to find it did not irritate my skin, clog pores or streak. I’m even more impressed they were able to guess my shades from online photos! I received full sizes of Natural 4, Natural Tan 4.25, Warm Natural 4.5 and Golden Natural 4.75. The one I’ve been testing is Natural Tan 4.25. This is one of the few foundations I’ve tried that does not oxidize at all. I usually pick something that looks a tiny bit lighter because most foundations warm up or darken as they set. This one stays 100% true to color. The sun and warmth has arrived back in Florida and I’ve already started to get my tan back. I suspect I will be going up a shade soon.

The foundation is formulated with Marine Sugar Cane and mineral powders to help combat shine. It also has Vitamin E, C and Shea Butter to add hydration. Formula to me seems almost gel-like. It blends in seamlessly into the skin with their Full Coverage Face Brush or a beautyblender. I find it rare that bases blend in this seamlessly with a brush. This one has impressive application. A little goes a long way. To me I feel like it has a gel-like feel because it is just the slightest bit thick and if you don’t blend quickly or add too much it does not feel weightless. I hesitate saying this because it it isn’t thick at all, just in comparison to some other bases I’ve tested recently in this post, I don’t feel like the Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation is weightless in feel. Still it is natural, it’s not heavy and has impressive lasting power. On me it has a slightly semi-dewy-looking finish so I recommend setting with powder.

The foundation is described as full coverage. I would say it’s medium full, but not 100% opaque. It did cover enough that I did not need any concealer and most of my freckles were covered well. I liked that it was crease-free on me around my smile lines. It’s recommended you use this with their cult-favorite Vitamin Enriched Face Base and Full Coverage Face Brush. This is my first time testing both and I was really impressed. The Vitamin Enriched Face Base is something I’ve used in place of moisturizer and it has a smoothing and hydrating effect on the skin. I resisted trying this for a long time because the word “enriched” made me think it was going to way too rich or heavy for me. I couldn’t have been more wrong. It’s quite lovely! The brush is very soft without any poking feel – it does feel like synthetic material and blends and buffs the foundation into the skin flawlessly.

My bare skin vs an application of the shade Natural Tan 4.25 (no concealer or powder). Also added in the after picture is Chanel Rouge Coco Gloss in Tendresse, Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Incandescent Electra Blush. Photos were taken with a flash, even though the Skin Long-Wear Foundation has SPF 15 I didn’t see any flash back.

Swatches of all 30 colors below:

Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Foundation Swatches Alabaster 00, Porcelain 0, Ivory .75, Warm Ivory 1, Cool Ivory 1.25, Sand 2, Cool Sand 2.25, Warm Sand 2.5, Beige 3 and Warm Beige 3.5

Natural 4, Natural Tan 4.25, Warm Natural 4.5, Golden Natural 4.75, Honey 5, Cool Honey 5.25, Warm Honey 5.5, Golden Honey 5.75, Golden 6, Cool Golden 6.25

Warm Almond 6.5, Golden Almond 6.75, Almond 7, Cool Almond 7.25, Warm Walnut 7.5, Walnut 8, Cool Walnut 8.25, Chestnut 9, Espresso 10, Cool Espresso 10.25

Overall thoughts: I had a positive experience with this base. It does look like skin even though it has rich coverage. I’m not sure I’d describe it as “weightless” but it’s not heavy. Lasting power is really good and was crease free on me. I do 100% recommend you set with a powder. I suspect it will work with a wide range of skin types although if you’re looking for a matte finish this may not be the base for you. A little goes a long way – it’s not a base I would layer on generously as it can get a bit sticky feeling if you layer too much. The brush is excellent but I still prefer my damp beautyblender method of application. Best parts include the fact that it did not oxidize and that it did not crease on me. Also a huge plus that they seem to have removed the ingredients that irritated my skin.

If you can get to a Bobbi Brown counter I highly recommend giving this a try. If you have to order online I hope these swatches helped you. Also give her Skin Long-Wear Foundation website page a look as she has some of the best face swatches I’ve seen to give you a better sense of what your best match might be.

You can find the Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation at all counters now. Online at Bobbi Brown, Nordstrom, Sephora, Neiman Marcus, Barneys New York and Saks Fifth Avenue. Have you tried this one yet? What did you think? If not do you use any Bobbi Brown foundations? What formulas do you recommend?

Skin Long-Wear Foundation, Vitamin Enriched Base and Full Coverage Face Brush provided as press samples courtesy of Bobbi Brown for review.

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Lips Pat McGrath Labs

Pat McGrath Lip Fetish Balm, La Beija, Femmebot, Venus in Furs, Vendetta + Full Blooded Lipsticks

April 23, 2018

I have another round of Pat McGrath Labs lip products to review today including her Lip Fetish Lip Balm ($38) and more shades of her LuxeTrance and Matte Trance Lipsticks ($38 each, available at Pat McGrath and Sephora). I discovered her lip products last holiday and reviewed nine of her lipsticks in this post here. I think her lipsticks are among the best I have ever tried for the creamy texture, rich pigment, smooth application and color selection. If you haven’t tried them I highly recommend you do.

Since my initial review, I purchased two more lipsticks and her lip balm. She has also launched new shades and I received three shades as press samples. Everything is excellent in quality, pigment, and lasting power. They do run on the high side price-wise but I think her products are 100% worth the splurge. Update: The shade I labeled Full Bodied is actually called Full Blooded. Sorry for the typo!

Thoughts, swatches and lip swatches below.

Lip Fetish Lip Balm is something exclusive to her website and it keeps selling out. It has restocked a couple times it since the initial launch and I admit I did not have high expectations for this. $38 for a lip balm is steep although I do own more expensive options. I have been completely impressed with this formula. It’s smooth, nicely hydrating and feels amazing. I wish I had kept the box so I could share the ingredients with you, but unfortunately I did not.
La Beija (LuxeTrance formula) is a peachy beige, this one was constantly sold out at my local Sephora. I snapped it up as soon as I saw it back in stock and like it for a peachy color. It can run a little dark for my taste, I think Vendetta or Donatella have a more neutral undertone which make them both easier for me to wear.
Femmebot (MatteTrance formula) is medium pink with blue tones, it’s not too blue on my skin so it’s very wearable for me. Sextrology is a bit more neutral. It has a soft sheen to it even though it has a matte finish. It’s more of a modern matte to me.
Venus in Furs (MatteTrance formula) is a neutral-cool rose, to me this pulls almost grey on my lips. It has a similar vibe to the NARS Velvet Lip Glide in Paradise Garage. On my lips, Venus in Furs is a darker version of 1995.
Vendetta (MatteTrance) is a bold matte red. I’ve said that the Christian Louboutin Rouge is the best classic red I’ve tried. I think Vendetta comes in very close behind. This one has a more glossy finish in the lip swatch because at this point in lip swatching and wiping my lips were dry so I had to apply balm underneath.
Full Blooded (MatteTrance) is one of the prettiest bold plums I’ve ever seen.

A few swatch comparisons. You can see these reviewed in my original Pat McGrath Labs LuxeTrance, MatteTrance, Permagel Eye and Lip Pencil Review. I’m missing Sextrology because I forgot to add it in the swatch lineup. I’ve added Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk for reference as it’s one of my favorite everyday neutrals.

Overall thumbs up on everything. I gravitate towards neutrals and she has a lot of amazing colors for neutral lip lovers. There is a nice range of different undertones to suit every skin color. They do have a soft vanilla scent but I love it. Lip products are full coverage but have a smooth finish. Long-time readers know I don’t like matte finish lipsticks in general. Her MatteTrance lipsticks have a velvety matte that doesn’t look flat or dry. They feel comfortable on the lips and last a long time. Her Lip Fetish Lip Balm was definitely worth the splurge for me. I’m not sure it’s something I’ll repurchase once I use up, but I do really like it and find it’s nice to have a balm in a twist up form that is dense enough that it doesn’t break at the base.

Out of all the new shades, my favorites are Femmebot and Full Blooded. In terms of her best neutrals for me I still like Realness and Sextrology the most. Bottom line there is a lot to love, formula and color-wise. I was really intrigued by Peep Show at Sephora but I swatched it on my hand and felt it was going to be a little too pale for me (Valletta is the best light-neutral for me in her lineup).

You can find Pat McGrath Labs products at Pat McGrath and Sephora. Have you tried any of her lip products? What did you think?

Venus in Furs, Vendetta and Full Bodied are press samples. All others purchased by me.

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Base Makeup

Natural Coverage Bases That Look Like Skin But Better

April 21, 2018

By popular request I have a roundup review of some natural glowy bases that look like skin but better. Even though the full coverage matte finish base has been very much on trend, fresh looking skin is still very much in! I’m rounding up some of the new ones I’ve tested alongside favorites from NARS, Sunday Riley, Sisley, Make Up For Ever and Erborian. I’ve included a few glow primers and bases in this post that go along with a few of the brands I’ve mentioned. At the end I’ll do my best to give you the bottom line of what I recommend depending on your skin type and what you’re looking for. Face swatches of a few of the bases and also side-by-side arm swatches at the bottom of this post.

Sunday Riley

Up first is the Sunday Riley The Influencer Clean Long Wear Foundation ($42 for 1.08 oz/32 ml). This is a very natural looking foundation that looks like fresh skin. On me it blurs out all my pores, smooths the skin, looks fresh and radiant. There is a noticeable glow so I absolutely recommend setting with a powder. It lasts all day on me but it’s not transfer resistant – if you touch your face some will come off a little. I personally love this one. My match right now is 190, but I ordered 3 shades sight unseen in 180, 190 and 200.

Why I love this one: It blends in seamlessly into the skin, even on bare skin. I find it works best if I apply with a beautyblender sponge but fingers work as well. I took a quick look at the customer reviews at Sephora and it appears to be hit or miss. I feel like those who find it a miss either couldn’t find a good color match, are most likely using a moisturizer/primer that is not compatible with this formula or do not like the ingredients. It has silicones and dimethicone very high on the list. After wearing this for around 4 days I find that I really love the wear and look.

Below bare skin vs. Sunday Riley The Influencer Foundation 190 on the face. I don’t have any added concealer or powder with any of the face swatches. I did do my eyes and lips with Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quads Nude Dip + Cocoa Mirage Eye Shadow Quad, Benefit BADgirl BANG Mascara, Diorshow Brow Styler in Universal Brown, MAC Lip Pencil in Boldly Bare and MAC Lustre Lipstick in Patisserie.

Coverage is sheer to medium. I personally need to add concealer and powder for sure, but below you can see the base worn on it’s own to get a sense of how much I was able to build. It covers redness and also evens out the skin in a natural looking way. Two pumps cover my entire face.

Erborian

I’ve been playing around with Erborian Korean Skin products for several months now. I discovered the CC Creme and BB Creme back in December while in Miami. Over the years so many of you have asked for CC Creme and BB Creme recommendations and I never have any to give because I actually don’t like those formulas. I find them often too thick, too pink in undertone and tacky-feeling on my combination skin. The ones from Erborian are the first ones I’ve ever truly liked.

The Erborian CC Creme is a white colored cream that adjusts to match your skintone once you blend. It can be used as a color-correcting primer but I find I can use it on it’s own. I use the Regular Shade (there are only 2 at the moment). It gives the skin a fresh dewy glow and evens out the skin and adds brightness. It is hydrating but not thick or heavy.

The Erborian BB Creme in Dore is something they call having a baby skin effect. To me it does give the softness of baby skin but with an added glow. There are three shades with this and even though it does seem to have medium coverage the color is quite forgiving when you blend it out. I absolutely feel application with a good sponge is essential with this one, otherwise it can look blotchy or streaky. It’s not a high maintenance application product, but with any base I feel less is more. You can get an even application with a sponge, use a little then layer if you need more.

The Glow Creme is something I’ve been using on and off as a primer or a highlighter on top of bases. I like it a lot but it’s not 100% love because it has a pinkish undertone which I don’t always want. I feel this is best for dry skin, if you have oily skin this may make you look too shiny. The blurring effect is minimal, I find the glow adds radiance and combats dull/sallow looking skin.

The Pink Perfect Creme completely blew me away. I resisted as I do not like anything pink for my face as I’m olive/yellow/golden. This is a great blurring primer that smooths the skin with a semi matte finish. The pink adds a very subtle glow to the skin. It helps minimize my pores, but as you can see from the bare skin photo my pores are on the small side. It is very lightweight in finish.

All the Erborian products are scented, but it’s not overpowering and it did not irritate my skin.

On the face wearing the CC Creme which is just a tiny bit too dark for me right now. The BB Creme in Dore is a perfect match once blended out even though when swatched it looks pink/peach. Wearing the same eye and lip makeup as listed above. Both photos I just have the base on, no powder or concealer.

YSL, NARS and Make Up For Ever

Next are some other natural glowy bases that look like skin from YSL, NARS and Make Up For Ever. The YSL Touche Eclat All-In-One Glow is a great radiant base for normal to dry skin. Although I’m more combination, this winter/spring we’ve had incredibly dry weather here so this has been perfect for me. I use Shade B40, you can see the full review + what it looks like on the face in this post here.

The NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint is the best natural base with a soft velvety matte tint. It doesn’t look overly matte, it’s what I want in a tinted moisturizer look but without the glow or dewy feel. I am often in between shades Groenland and St. Moritz, right now I’m St. Moritz exactly. Coverage is very natural looking like skin and easy to build. This is probably my favorite natural looking base for everyday.

The NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer was one of my favorites when I lived in San Diego. There the climate is mild year round and this gives the skin beautiful coverage and hydration without looking shiny, heavy or sliding off. In South Florida this is too dewy for most of the year as we have humid climate. I still use this on and off. I’m in the same shades as the other lines and alternate between Groenland and St. Moritz.

I wanted to briefly mention that the Radiance Primer is excellent for NARS bases. I often think you should use the same brand of primer and foundation – they’re designed to work with the products they formulate within the line. The color of this one is soft and peachy which I love. It blends out to a clear finish but having that subtle radiance makes a difference on me.

Make Up For Ever has some great bases. Their Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation and Stick Foundation are holy grails in my book. I was really excited to try the new Ultra HD Perfector and found my best match was Shade 7. I like but don’t love this. It’s great for a fresh dewy look if you don’t need a lot of coverage or color. It definitely looks like my skin but better. I don’t love it because it’s a little too sheer and a little too hydrating for my taste. It does last on me without sliding off. I set with a powder to tone down the dew. I think it can work great as a first layer of base and then add a fuller coverage base on areas.

Sisley-Paris

Last but not least are some loves from Sisley. I’ve been so impressed with everything I’ve tried from the line. I wanted to mention three things. The Instant Eclat Instant Glow Primer is my favorite glow base out of all the ones I’ve ever tried. It comes with a hefty price tag but I bought this and find it’s 100% worth the splurge. I love that the color isn’t too pink or iridescent. It adds a very soft glow to the skin. I do find that the Charlotte Tilbury Brightening Youth Glow or Wonder Glow can do similar things, just with a different color or level of shimmer at a cheaper price. But the Sisley is the best.

The Double Tenseur is another popular primer. It smooths out the skin and helps foundation apply and adhere better to the face without feeling silicone-like, thick or heavy. I love that it’s clear so I don’t have to worry about my face changing color or looking too white. It looks like second skin and smooths the surface of your skin.

The Sisley Tinted Sunscreen Cream is one of the best tinted creams I’ve ever tried. It cost a small fortune but I was really happy with the purchase. The only downside is the shade selection is extremely limited. In the swatch you’ll see below Golden 2 looks light, but once I apply it, it will adjust to my skin tone without oxidizing. I know this sounds like a contradiction, but it warms up without darkening.

Swatches

Swatches of the bases I mentioned alongside a few others:

Swatches of the glow primers alongside some other options. Note that once you blend these most of the colors sheer out a lot on the skin. The Bobbi Brown Golden Glow Extra Balm reviewed here.

Final thoughts

That rounds up my Natural Bases That Look Like Skin But Better post! I hope this helped you in case you were wondering about some of the new launches. Finding one that works for you is going to depend on your skin tone, skin type and coverage needs.

My favorite for a soft velvet matte finish: NARS Velvet Matte Skin Tint
My favorite new launch: tie between Sunday Riley The Influencer and YSL Touche Eclat All-In-One Glow
Sheerest and most dewy: Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Perfector
Most hydrating fresh-faced feel: Erborian BB Creme

If you need more coverage products, you can read some of my other base reviews by clicking the Base Makeup tag. A few full coverage formulas I love include the Laura Mercier Flawless Fusion, Tom Ford Waterproof, NARS Natural Radiant (many reviewed here). My favorite setting powders in this post here.

You can find the products listed at retailers below:

Erborian, Make Up For Ever, Sunday Riley The Influencer can be found at Sephora
NARS is carried at NARS Cosmetics, Barneys New York, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta Beauty
Sisley-Paris available at Sisley, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys New York
YSL available at Sephora, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus

If you are shopping at Sephora, don’t forget to use your promo code:

Rouge Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYROUGE
VIB Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYVIB
BI Members: receive 10% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYINSIDER

I’m doing one last giveaway this month. One person will receive one $100 eGift card to their choice of Nordstrom or Sephora. Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older. To enter for a chance to win use the widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Runs through Monday April 23, 2018 (edit, extending to 3:00 PM EST). I contact the winner via e-mail same day. Not sponsored or affiliated! Good luck!

Press samples featured include the Sisley Double Tenseur, Erborian BB Creme and CC Creme. All others purchased by me.

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Hauls Sephora

Sephora Spring Haul Picks

April 20, 2018

I have a mega haul roundup today with my Sephora picks plus an exciting giveaway! If you read my recommendations posts you saw I was mainly planning to stock up on beautyblenders but of course that did not go according to plan. The 15% off for a Rouge Member was too good to pass up and I did two hauls, one in store and the one online. I picked up a few things from each category except for eye makeup. I feel like those Pat McGrath Spring Palettes and the NARSisisst Wanted Eyeshadow Palette really cover everything I need right now! What I bought during the Sephora Spring Bonus Event with some first impressions where applicable. Quick recap on the details:

Rouge Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYROUGE
VIB Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYVIB
BI Members: receive 10% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYINSIDER

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Makeup – Lips

Armani Ecstasy Lacquer 100 and 101 – I’ve already tested these and they are a huge miss. Pigment is pretty much non-existant, texture is very thin, I’ve tried others in this formula and they were pretty nice, these are a huge disappointment!
Dior Addict Lacquer Stick – 320 Nude Wave is a really pretty pink peach, I have been a huge fan of Underground and Rolling, I was hoping they’d expand the color range and they have!
Bite Agave Lip Mask Champagne – This is a repurchase for me! I’ve also swatched Maple for reference.

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Makeup – Face

Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Opal, Dreamsicle, Moonstone, Chocolate Geode, Pearl, Rose Quartz etc. swatches of all of the shades in this post here.
Becca Hydra-Mist Set and Refresh Powder – Many of you raved about this, I’m really excited to try it as it reminds me of the old Prescriptives Powder that was popular in the early 2000’s.
Cover FX Power Play Foundation in G50 – swatches + review here.
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Perfector in Shade 7 – this is a sheer glowy tint that has a hydrating feel and dewy finish. Review on the formula coming this weekend.
MILK Makeup Blur Stick mini – haven’t tested yet, but excited to try!
Sunday Riley The Influencer Foundation in 180, 190 and 200 – Detailed review to follow this weekend, I’ve been testing and swatching these and am really impressed! Stores near me each only had around 5 shades to sell in store. I could not find a match so I guessed and ordered online. This base looks like skin but better. It has a really smooth natural finish. 180 is a little peachy for me, 190 is my match right now, 200 is going to be a good summer shade. Quick take is I 100% recommend.
Tarte Tarteguard Mineral Powder Sunscreen SPF 30 – I have high hopes for this as another sunscreen powder for touch ups during the day. Will keep you posted.

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Skincare

Fresh Sugar Face Polish Full Size – Loved this in a miniature size I bought in a set over the holiday, finally bought the full size.
La Mer The Eye Concentrate – This is my first luxury eye cream splurge, I usually buy eye creams that are at a lower price point. I have really high hopes for this one!
La Mer Soft Moisturizing Lotion – Not shown because Andrew has already put it on his side of the bathroom counter and started using it, but I bought this as I used mine up a long time ago and really liked it. He’s pretty impressed so far.
MILK B.O.S.S. Skincare Set – Thanks to my reader Lawler for putting this on my radar! It has 4 minis of MILK’s Watermelon Serum, Cooling Water, Matcha Toner and Matcha Cleanser in a mini bag.
Sephora Favorites Power of the Petal Skincare Set – Bought this for the minis!
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask – Also excited to give this a try.
Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen – Never without this sunscreen. I should have bought the largest size but this size works great for my purse.

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Haircare

Aquis Lisse Luxe Long Hair Towel – Saw this featured on @wendyslookbook’s Instagram Stories and immediately was intrigued! I put it on my wishlist and ordered. It’s just what I needed to cut down drying time.
Christophe Robin Volumizing Hair Paste – Another repurchase which I love.
IGK Mistress Hydrating Balm Full Size – Bought the full size, it smells like coconut and I’m obsessed with anything coconut.

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Other

beautyblender BFF Duo – Both are for me, I really should stock up on more of these but they’re so expensive and I already splurged on so much.
Benefit BADgal BANG! Mascara – I bought the mini when it launched and really liked it! I repurchased in the regular/full size.
Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc – I’ve been talking about this for months. I bought it. I love it. It’s going to be my spring to summer scent.

I’ve received great feedback on my giveaways and decided to do something different today which I’m really excited about! I feel like if you read this blog there’s a good chance you’re a beauty junkie like me so I’m giving away something to put your makeup in. One person will be selected to win a Louis Vuitton Monogram Cosmetic Pouch (PM size)! The quality and craftsmanship are exceptional and mine have lasted for years! I decided to buy one to giveaway.

To enter for a chance to win, simply follow the instructions in the widget below and perform one of the tasks. Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older. Giveaway will run through Tuesday April 24th 11:45 PM EST. I’ll pick one winner at random through the widget within 48 hours after giveaway ends and contact them via e-mail. Selected winner must respond within 48 hours or another person will be selected in their place. Prize will ship within a week with tracking number. Not sponsored or affiliated.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Did you already shop the Sephora Bonus Event for the Rouge round or are you shopping this weekend for VIB/BI? Let me know what you’re buying!

Rouge Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYROUGE
VIB Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYVIB
BI Members: receive 10% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYINSIDER

289 Comments

Becca Highlighters

Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter Swatches + Review

April 19, 2018

I’ve loved the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter for years! I still remember the early days of the brand when the line had those beautiful loose shimmering powders, pigmented eyeshadow singles and glowy lip glosses. They had the prettiest pink gold shimmer powder called Gypsy and warm pink called Princess which I wish they’d bring back, but these days they have so many beautiful options you are bound to find one that works for you. The Becca Glow is one of the more intense highlighters on the market. The Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter is an ultra soft powder that comes in a number of colors. All the colors are very pigmented, ultra smooth and very soft. This makes the powder in the compacts themselves on the delicate side – it’s not something I’d throw in your purse for touch-ups. If you do carry it with you make sure it’s secured in a cushioned makeup bag.

I’ve found classics to be Opal, Moonstone, Rose Gold and Champagne Pop. I’ve used up entire pans of Opal and Champagne Pop which is huge for me since I own so many highlighters I rarely ever hit pan. I’ve purchased a few other shades and also have received a couple here and there as press samples. It occurred to me that I hadn’t done a comprehensive roundup and so I stopped by several different Sephora stores during the Spring Bonus Event and bought all the other shades I could find. Do note that you won’t find all the colors at Sephora. Some are Ulta Exclusives and a couple are exclusive to Becca’s Website. I don’t have all the shade options swatched today, I’m missing Prosecco Pop (I did swatch it from a palette here), Golden Mint and Parisian Lights, but I do have most of them!

In terms of application the highlight can be pretty intense but the formula is soft and easy to layer and blend. You can use them anywhere you want a highlight, on the cheeks or eyes. I find them versatile for both. Since they are intense I like to use a loose fluffy brush to apply. For me I prefer one that is really soft. My favorites are the Wayne Goss Brush 14 (also in The Face Set), Laura Mercier Fan Brush, MAC 137S or Chanel Foundation Blending Brush (it’s essentially like the MAC skunk brush but fluffier/less dense).

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Onto the colors, I’ve split the 15 colors I now own into 3 categories so you can see the shimmer/colors better up close. First set includes lighter champagnes and white shimmers.

Pearl, Moonstone, Vanilla Quartz, Champagne Pop and Opal

Color descriptions and swatches:

Pearl is a glowy white pearl shimmer
Opal is a champagne pink beige shimmer
Moonstone is a soft light gold beige shimmer
Champagne Pop is a classic champagne gold shimmer
Vanilla Quartz is a duo chrome opal that flashes a hint of pink, note that on my skin it’s hard to see the duo chrome in the swatch below

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Dreamsicle, Topaz, Bronzed Amber, Chocolate Geode and Gradient Glow

Bronzey shimmers swatches:

Dreamsicle is the newest, it’s a soft tangerine + gold swirl, on me this looks very orange on the cheeks, it looks amazing on the eyes thought!
Topaz is a coppery bronze pearl
Bronzed Amber (found this at Ulta) is one of the least shimmery colors, it has a velvety sheen and is a warm soft bronze amber
Chocolate Geode is also one of the newer ones, the beauty world needs more medium to deep highlighters like this one! It’s a shimmering bronze, swatches darker on the arm than on the face (scroll down for beauty looks)
Gradient Glow (also an Ulta exclusive) is a mix of Bronzed Amber, Moonstone, Opal, Rose Gold and Topaz pressed together in stripes. Swirl them together and you get a really pretty color!

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Rose Quartz, Smoky Quartz, Prismatic Amethyst, Rose Gold and Lilac Geode

Pink tones and swatches:

Rose Quartz is one I never knew existed! I thought for sure it would be way too pale for me but it’s actually a very wearable pale cool pink shimmer
Prismatic Amethyst is pale lavender with a hint of soft pink gold shimmer
Smoky Quartz (available on Becca’s website) is a shimmering mauve with taupe undertones
Lilac Geode (available at Ulta) is a a pale pink lilac gold
Rose Gold is a medium rose peach shimmer

I swatched a few on the face. As always I don’t usually wear highlighter alone on the cheeks. I typically layer on top of blush or bronzer but I swatch them alone on the cheeks so you can see the true color. Also wearing below:

Foundation is Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation in Natural Tan 4.25
Powder is Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Powder
Lip Gloss is MAC Lipglass in All Things Magical (new and LOVE it!)
Eyeshadow is the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Opal + Chocolate Geode mixed
Brows have the By Terry Eyebrow Mascara in Dark Brown on them
Mascara is L’Oreal Lash Paradise Waterproof

Highlighter Colors worn:

Top Row: Champagne Pop and Dreamsicle
Second Row: Chocolate Geode and Rose Gold
Bottom Row: Rose Quartz

Overall thoughts and a few comparison notes to other highlighter options. I think the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighters are some of the prettiest ones out there. Texture-wise they can be on the soft side so some may be more delicate than other brands. Shimmer factor is medium to high but easy to diffuse or intensify. Lasting power is excellent. There is a wide range of shades but if you’re medium skin toned like me some of the lighter options may look really similar on you. Whether or not these are must-haves really depends on what you already own. We live in a world saturated with highlighters and they keep on coming. I do think the quality, texture, pigment and finish are excellent with the Becca ones. If you own a ton you may want to shop your stash.

On me these don’t emphasize pores or texture but your mileage may vary depending on your skin type. I think with highlighters blending is key to smooth out any harsh edges.

My top picks are Rose Gold, Opal, Smoky Quartz and Champagne Pop. If you want a more trendy duo chrome kind of shimmer opt for their Light Chaser Highlighters (reviewed here when I was super tan!). Anastasia Beverly Hills Glow Kits have a more intense frost and shine. If you want something more natural looking with less shimmer I’d recommend you try the NARS Highlighting Powders or Tom Ford Sheer Cheek Duos. If you like the shimmer and sheen of the Becca Highlighters but want more color (versus shimmer) their Shimmering Skin Perfector Blushes are some of the most glowy pigmented blushes I’ve ever tried. If you’ve been interested in these but don’t have a counter or store near you I hope these swatches help you!

You can find the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighters at Sephora, Ulta Beauty, Nordstrom and Becca Cosmetics.

If you’re a Sephora Beauty Insider there will be another round of their Spring Beauty Event coming up this week! The dates, details and codes for the Sephora Spring Bonus Event Round 2:

Rouge Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYROUGE
VIB Members: receive 15% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYVIB
BI Members: receive 10% off 4/20 through 4/23, use code YAYINSIDER

I’ll have my Sephora haul on the blog tomorrow 🙂 And to continue the spirit of giving back I’m doing a few more giveaways this week! One person will be selected to win 3 Becca items including the Iconic Trio Set, Ocean Jewels Highlighter Palette and Ocean Jewels Eyeshadow Palette. Open internationally to anyone 18 years or older. Simply enter through the widget below. Runs through 4/20/2018 11:45 PM EST. One winner will be selected within 48 hours after giveaway ends and contacted via email by me. They must respond/confirm within 48 hours or another winner will be selected in their place. Prizes are shipped within a week. Not sponsored or affiliated.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Press samples of highlighter include Vanilla Quartz, Prismatic Amethyst, and Gradient Glow. All other shades purchased by me.

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L'Occitane Skincare

L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Collection Favorites

April 18, 2018

The L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Collection has been a long-time go-to for me in skincare. I’ve used their Immortelle Divine Youth Oil for years and have been thrilled every time I learn they have expanded the collection. As much as I love switching up skincare and trying new things I find that the Immortelle Divine Youth Oil and Immortelle Divine Cream are among my top picks for glowing radiant skin. I reviewed some new additions last fall. I’ve continued to use the collection in my regular skincare routine and have since had a chance to try a couple more things. Today I’m teaming up with L’Occitane to share a few favorites along with two new discoveries.

For the eyes I’ve really liked the Immortelle Divine Eyes for a gentle lightweight eye treatment. It’s like a lotion so it doesn’t feel heavy and is nice to wear for the day. For me it does a really nice job at reducing puffiness. It helps smooth out any fine lines and is gently hydrating. I also like that it doesn’t run or sting the eyes and the fact that it comes with a nice pump dispenser. I’ve recently started testing the Immortelle Divine Eye Balm which is richer and offers more hydration. I love this one at night.

For cleansers I’ve already used up several bottles of the Immortelle Divine Foaming Cleanser. It’s a nice gentle everyday cleanser that leaves the skin feeling smooth and soft. Many of you have asked for makeup remover recommendations and I like their Immortelle Oil Make-Up Remover for a gentle cleansing oil, but their Immortelle Cleansing Balm is my absolute favorite. It’s a balm-in-oil that melts once you massage it into dry skin. It removes all traces of face makeup and has moisturizing properties so your skin doesn’t feel stripped. I often use this as a first step cleanser instead of a cleansing oil. The solid/gel balm is less runny than a traditional cleansing oil and easier for me to use.

Last I’ve added the Immortelle Divine Serum into my routine. I had just been using the Cream during the day and Oil at night. Adding a serum is a step I usually neglect but it really makes a huge difference in helping the skin absorb moisturizer better. This Immortelle Divine Serum is a concentrated formula with immortelle essential oil. It’s soft and dries to a soft velvety finish. For my skin I’ve started to develop fine lines and I feel like this serum really helps soften them and firms up the skin on my forehead and chin area. You can use this in conjunction with both the cream or oil.

If I could recommend just one thing, it would be the Immortelle Divine Youth Oil. I love using it at night. It’s one of my favorites for dry skin and it absorbs nicely into the skin so it doesn’t feel heavy. I’m also really smitten with their eye care products. Eye creams and balms are something I often neglect because I find most too heavy, these absorb nicely into the skin without feeling heavy. They have just the right amount of moisture to hydrate the skin and soften fine lines. Bottom line a solid go-to for my regular skincare routine. I can’t wait to see what new launches they add to the line!