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Lips Sephora

Long-wear Lip Test Try On

September 23, 2022

Long-Wear Lip Test Sephora Haul Picks

Today’s roundup is for all the girls asking for the best new long-wear lip formulas. I love that there are so many new formulas on the market for us to choose from. It’s nice to have options! I’m usually a glossy lip lover but I’ve been trying out more matte formulas, especially since the fall season is around the corner and mattes are nice to wear this time of year!

Long-Wear Lip Test Sephora Haul Picks Huda Beauty, Dior, NARS, Urban Decay

I put four new formulas to the test from Sephora. They always have the newest launches first and I love their Beauty Insider Program (you can sign up for free here). After playing around with some new formulas I am really surprised that the budge-proof lip DOES exist! Here’s what I tried and my thoughts on each formula.

Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Ultra-Comfort Transfer-Proof Lipsticks

Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Lipsticks

The Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Ultra-Comfort Transfer-Proof Lipsticks ($21 each) are among the most popular for liquid lipsticks. I usually don’t opt for liquid lipsticks because they often look really dry and darken on my lips but there are a lot of really great colors in this line. I tried one from a sample I got as a Beauty Insider and was immediately hooked.

Sweet Talker is a muted pink and Perfectionist is a pretty cool rose pink. I really want to try more shades! The formula is a lightweight liquid. It dries to a comfortable matte finish and once it dries it stays put for hours. Lasting power is really good as long as your lips stay dry. It will transfer to a straw if you drink or if you eat, but other than that I’d give it an A+ for pigment and B+ for lasting power.

Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Ultra-Comfort Transfer-Proof Lipstick Sweet Talker

Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Ultra-Comfort Transfer-Proof Lipstick Perfectionist

Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Liquid Lip

 

The Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Liquid Lipsticks ($25) are truly impressive. I love that they have a glossy finish versus the traditional matte look for a liquid lip. The lasting power is truly incredible. Transfer proof and budge proof but you need to let it dry/set. Since it’s ultra pigmented I’d say a little goes a long way. You only need a thin layer to cover the lip. My favorite is Text ‘Em for the perfect pink rose.

Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Liquid Lipsticks

Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Liquid Lipstick Text Em

Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Liquid Lipstick Safe Word

Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Liquid Lipstick Unbreakable

New NARS Powermatte Long-Lasting Lipstick

The NARS Powermatte Long-Lasting Lipsticks ($34) are also A+ lip material. They have a more matte almost airbrushed look compared to the Powermatte Lip Pigments. I picked two shades to try in Sweet Disposition (pale pink) and American Woman (dusty rose). They have a smooth weightless texture. A few swipes and your entire lip is covered and on me they did not transfer to my hand or a napkin!

NARS Powermatte Long-Lasting Lipsticks

NARS Powermatte Long-Lasting Lipsticks Sweet Disposition and American Woman

Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipstick

Dior Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipsticks

I’ve saved the best (in my opinion) for last. The Dior Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipsticks ($42) are the best transfer-proof lipsticks I’ve tried. I picked 100 Forever Nude Look for my first shade to try and was beyond impressed. It lasted through a cheeseburger meal! The 100 Forever Nude Look pulls a little lighter/cooler than all the other Nude Look lipstick formulas. I found 500 Forever Sensual to be a bit closer in color (another great nude). I also love 200 Forever Nude Touch for a beige and 558 Forever Grace is a lovely berry.

I still love the Dior Rouge Dior Forever Liquid Transfer-Proof Lipsticks. I find the new twist up Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipsticks to be better in terms of lasting power.

Dior Rouge Dior Forever Transfer-Proof Lipsticks

In each look, also wearing:

That wraps up my long-wear lipstick try on haul! What’s your go-to longwear lipstick? Or are you more of a gloss/balm kind of person?

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Many thanks to Sephora for partnering to sponsor this post.

Beauty Favorites Nordstrom

New Beauty Launches for Fall

September 7, 2022

New Fall Beauty Launches Nordstrom

Fall beauty is trickling in and I have a mini haul with first impressions to share with picks from Nordstrom Beauty today! So many of you expressed interest in the new foundation from Westman Atelier and the Cle de Peau lipstick reformulation. I’m excited to have swatches and thoughts to share with you today!

Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Complexion Foundation & Stick Foundation Review VI

The Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Complexion Foundation is one of the most requested products to review and I ordered Shade VI to try. I picked it based on the color I use in the Vital Skin Foundation Stick and it’s a perfect match.

The Vital Skincare Complexion Foundation is one of the most dewy radiant bases I’ve tried. It has very natural coverage and is sheerer than the stick formula. I would say this is for normal to dry or dry skin types. It gives the skin a fresh faced glow. I like to use this layered with the stick foundation for more coverage and absolutely need to set with a powder. I like how natural it looks and skin feels well hydrated with this formula. For me it is a good layering base. I personally need more coverage to even out my skin so this is not one I can wear alone. Lasting power is pretty good for something this dewy – as long as I set with a powder well it stays looking fresh through the early afternoon without any touch ups needed.

Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Complexion Foundation & Stick Foundation Review VI

Westman Atelier Vital Skincare Complexion Foundation Shade VI

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Concealer

There are quite a few new concealers out and I think the Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Concealer just might be one of my favorites. I wear either Shade 6 or 7 neutral in her Beautiful Skin Foundation so I ordered the concealer in Shades 6, 6.5 and 7.5 to try. The colors seem to run a lot lighter than the corresponding number for the foundations but they do warm up a bit on the skin once they set. Shade 6 is what I like for brightening under the eyes and it turned out to be warmer and a bit darker than 6.5.

I love the buildable coverage. It blends out nicely and brightens my under eye perfectly. Love that it doesn’t cake or crease. Lasting power is excellent. It’s pretty much everything I want in an under eye concealer.

Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Concealer

I have it swatched below next to the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealers, Cle de Peau Concealer and the YSL Touche Eclat Concealer.

Concealer Swatches Charlotte Tilbury, NARS, Cle de Peau, YSL

Cle de Peau has reformulated quite a few of their items and I ordered one of the Luminizing Face Enhancers in Shade 203 to try. I own this color in the older formula and am really impressed with the new one. It has more pigment and shimmer payoff compared to the original. The new one is still natural looking on the skin for a radiant multi-dimensional shimmer.

Cle de Peau Luminizing Face Enhancers in Shade 203

For the eyes I’ve been loving all the new Chanel launches. The Chanel Les 4 Ombres Tweed Palettes are stunning. For fall I think the Shade 02 Tweed Pourpre has a lovely mix of purples for the season. I rarely wear purples but this one ended up being very wearable for me. I also picked up the new Les 4 Ombres 58 Intensite which keeps selling out but I highly recommend tracking it down when it restocks! It has a neutral-cool toned color palette for plums. I swatched it next to Warm Memories for comparison.

Chanel Les 4 Ombres Tweed Pourpre and Intensite

Chanel Eyeshadow Swatches Tweed Pourpre, Intensite, Warm Memories

wearing Chanel Les 4 Ombres Intensite below

Chanel Les 4 Ombres Intensite

The Chanel Noir Allure Mascara is a winner for me! It comes in the same style as the Rouge Allure Lipsticks in the most beautiful pop up case. I like the formula although I don’t think it will be for everyone. It’s a nice defining mascara that doesn’t clump or smudge. It holds the curl nicely but there are other formulas that are better at volumizing and thickening (like the Le Volume de Chanel).

Cle de Peau Lipstick Reformulation 2022

Cle de Peau Lipstick Reformulation 2022

Cle de Peau Lipstick 11 Triumphant Tawny

Cle de Peau Lipstick 12 Power Mauve

Cle de Peau Lipstick 13 Positively Playful

Cle de Peau Shine Lipstick 211 Influential

Last but not least I have a quick look at the new reformulated Cle de Peau Lipsticks. I tried all three formulas in their Regular Lipstick, Lipstick Matte and Lipstick Shine. I’ve always thought Cle de Peau foundations were well worth the splurge but had mixed feelings about their lipsticks until now. The reformulation is incredible. At $65 each these are very spendy but the pigment is just beautiful. They have a smooth texture, rich color payoff and a lovely finish. Great lasting power and colors. The shines are sheerer than the other formulas but they have a beautiful glossy finish.

I have four of them on the lips below. My favorite is 13 Positively Playful although 11 Triumphant Tawny is a beautiful nude pink.

New Fall Beauty Launches Nordstrom

That wraps up my mini beauty haul! Lots more newness coming out this month! What do you have on your radar for fall beauty?

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Many thanks to Nordstrom for partnering to sponsor this post. As always all opinions are my own.

Haircare Sephora

New Hair Care Tries & Current Loves

August 29, 2022

Hair Care Loves from Sephora

Sharing a roundup of some new hair care tries from Sephora today along with an update on other products I tried earlier this year!

Dae Monsoon Moisture Milk Hydrating Shampoo & Conditioner

There are a few new shampoo and conditioner formulas out now. As a fan of the Dae Haircare line I immediately purchased the new Monsoon Moisture Milk Hydrating Shampoo ($26) and Monsoon Moisture Hydrating Conditioner ($26). Both are really nice for adding moisture back into the hair. The Shampoo lathers nicely and has a soft almost meadowfoam like scent to it. The Hydrating Conditioner is like a thick cream, but still has enough fluidity to pump out easily.

I really like both, but if you have normal/oily hair I’d recommend sticking with their Signature Shampoo and Conditioner (both also great and versatile, and they smell like bubblegum, in a good way!)

Olaplex No 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo

I love Olaplex and they recently launched their No 4C Bond Maintenance Clarifying Shampoo ($30) and I really like it. It’s a great clarifying formula to remove product buildup, sweat and dirt that accumulates. You do need to follow up with a conditioner or mask, I use their No 5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner when I use this.

Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection Heat Protectant Cream

For hair care styling and anti-frizz treatments I have a few staples I wanted to give some love to. I’ve tried so many blow dry heat protectants and the Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection Heat Protectant Cream ($26) is one I keep going back to. It is a lightweight cream with the perfect texture for my hair. Doesn’t weigh it down, doesn’t end up being too thick, leaves hair smooth and soft!

dpHUE Color Fresh Leave-In Conditioner Mist

The dpHUE Color Fresh Leave-In Conditioner Mist ($28) continues to be a favorite leave in conditioner spray I use on damp hair.

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo

For dry shampoo I really love the Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo ($30). It has their fast-absorbing powders to soak up sweat. I still love the original version but have the advance formula in rotation right now. I brought the mini with me to Key West last month.

Leave in Hair Masks ColorWow, K18, Living Proof

For the weekly mask/treatment there are three I’ve been testing and really like. You don’t need all three. Pick one based on your hair type and needs. I think these are a nice alternative to the rinse out conditioner or rinse out mask because these you can leave in the hair.

The ColorWOW Dream Coat Supernatural Anti-Frizz Treatment ($28) is my favorite because of the formula and spritz style applicator. You can spray and coat your hair evenly and it lasts several shampoos. It acts like a keratin treatment to smooth out the hair.

Another great option is the K18 Biomimetic Hairscience Leave-In Molecular Repair Hair Mask ($75). This is a leave-in treatment you use on towel dried or damp hair. When I use this I don’t use a rinse out conditioner. A little goes a long way. Leave it in the hair for about 5 minutes to activate before styling. Really works to smooth out hair and restore moisture.

The latest in leave-in treatments is the Living Proof Triple Bond Complex Leave-in Hair Treatment ($45). This is the newest one I’ve tried and I really like this one too. With this formula a little goes a very long way, so I’d say less is more. This is another product you leave in the hair after shampoo/cleansing. Leave it in 10 minutes before blow drying or heat styling. It’s designed to be a hair strengthener that leaves it smooth and shiny.

Living Proof Triple Bond Complex Leave-in Hair Treatment

Living Proof Triple Bond Complex Leave-in Hair Treatment

Hair Care Loves from Sephora

You can find everything available at Sephora. If you’re not a Beauty Insider yet you can sign up for free here!

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Many thanks to Sephora for partnering to sponsor this post. As always all opinions are my own.

Nordstrom

New Beauty Launches To Put On Your Radar

August 12, 2022

New Beauty Launches from Nordstrom

Happy Friday! New beauty launches for the summer to fall transition have arrived – there’s lots of new beauty at Nordstrom right now – new skincare, fragrance launches, makeup and more. I have a look at some of the things I’ve tried recently and love.

New Hourglass Foundation

Hourglass Ambient Soft Glow Foundation and Veil Mineral Primer

Hourglass launched a new foundation called the Ambient Soft Glow Foundation and so many of you asked for a review on this one. Their foundations have been hit or miss for me but this one is a hit. It’s one of the best long-wear full coverage bases I’ve tried. It’s a liquid formula with full opaque coverage. A little goes a long way.

I like it best when applied over the Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer and Augustinus Bader The Cream. It looks great when applied with a brush. I love their Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Brush but also bought their new Ambient Foundation Brush to try and love how soft, dense and plush it is. Foundation has a semi-matte velvety finish but with a light diffusing effect so it’s not completely matte. I wear Shade 9 (medium with warm tones).

NARS Laguna Extensions

NARS Laguna Cream Bronzer 01, 02 and 03

NARS extended the shades of their popular Laguna Cream Bronzer and I think it’s great that they did! It has the Monoi de Tahiti Oil and has that scent to it, but it’s not overpowering and did not irritate my skin. There are 5 shades total now, I have 3 swatched for you. I love Shade 01 as a light contour, but for a regular bronzer to warm up the complexion Shade 02 (the original) is best for me. It’s creamy, easy to blend, matte, and neutral in undertone.

Below wearing the Hourglass Foundation + NARS Cream Bronzer on the complexion, sweater tank here 

NARS Laguna Cream Bronzer 02

NARS Laguna Cream Bronzer 02

Swatched below next to the Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Sun-Kissed Bronzers I have (which are more matte in finish) and the Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Bronzing Creams (a bit warmer in undertone).

NARS Laguna Cream Bronzer swatches vs Charlotte Tilbury and Chanel

Cheek Favorites

For cheeks Laura Mercier added a new cheek formula and I love it. The new Rose Glow Blush Color Infusion shades are a mix of blush and highlighter in one so they give the skin a nice glow without that sharp highlight. I have two of them, Peach Shimmer is a soft diffused peach shimmer and All That Sparkles is a soft pink shimmer. I added a swatch of the Laura Mercier Rose Glow Highlighting Powder in Rose Glow below for comparison.

I’ve been getting so much love from you for Westman Atelier! I will try to do a full feature on what I’ve tried from her line soon. A lot of you wanted to know my favorite shade of blush from her line and right now I love the Baby Cheeks in Petal. I also have and wear Chouchette and Minette often but Petal is the one I reach for the most.

Laura Mercier Rose Glow Blush Color Infusion and Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks

Laura Mercier Rose Glow Blush Color Infusion and Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks

New Charlotte Tilbury

I’m a huge fan of Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise Cream Eyeshadows. I own almost every single color she has launched (Rose Gold and Star Gold are my favorites). She just added three new shades in Golden Eclipse (repromoted from a previous NSALE) which is a shimmery gold, Sunlit Glow (duochrome pink gold peach mix) and Exagger-eyes (shimmery taupe with silver sparkles). I swatched the shade extensions to most of the existing colors. I love these for the creamy emollient texture and beautiful shimmers.

Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise Cream Eyeshadows

Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise Cream Eyeshadows swatches

New Fall Beauty Launches Nordstrom

New Lip Formulas

For lips there is lots to fall in love with this time of year. Armani added new shades to the Lip Power formula and I love Shade 109 for a neutral everyday rose.

Armani Lip Power 109

Armani Lip Power 109

Gucci Gorgeous Flora Glow and Care Shine Lipstick in They Met in Argentina is a new color and I love everything about it from the limited-edition pink floral packaging, shiny glossy finish and warm color. It’s one of the best colors that brightens the face but isn’t so bright it’s bold (if that makes sense).

Gucci Gorgeous Flora Glow and Care Shine Lipstick in They Met in Argentina

Gucci Gorgeous Flora Glow and Care Shine Lipstick in They Met in Argentina

MAC Powder Kiss Velvet Blur Slim Lipsticks are beautiful blurred mattes. I limited myself to try one to see if I liked the formula with Mull It Over (warm spice) and I love it. It’s warmer and bolder than my usual nude or rose pink lip, but I love it. Glides on smoothly, doesn’t look dry even though it’s matte, gives lips a blurred effect. I definitely want to try more shades!

MAC Powder Kiss Velvet Blur Slim Lipstick Mull It Over

MAC Powder Kiss Velvet Blur Slim Lipstick Mull It Over

Laura Mercier Petal Soft Lipstick Crayons are amazing. If you’re a fan of twist up chubby sticks these are gorgeous. They glide on beautifully, hug the lips and the colors are stunning. I’ve swatched two below, I haven’t had a chance to try all the other shades but will soon. Maia is a gorgeous healthy soft pink and Alma is a pink red on me.

Laura Mercier Petal Soft Lipstick Crayons

Laura Mercier Petal Soft Lipstick Crayons Maia

Laura Mercier Petal Soft Lipstick Crayons Alma

Lip Swatches

New Beauty Launches from Nordstrom

That wraps up my mini new beauty roundup! The Chanel Les Beiges Water-Fresh Complexion Touch Foundation and Water-Fresh Blush are finally available at Nordstrom now (love both). New shades of Rouge Allure and Le Vernis have popped up online too. I also have the new Tory Burch Essence of Dreams perfumes on my radar and ordered some of the new Cle de Peau lipsticks in the Satin, Matte and Shine formulas! Lots to look forward to trying in the near future.

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What’s on your radar right now for new beauty?

Many thanks to Nordstrom for partnering to sponsor this post. As always all opinions are my own.

Lips Sephora

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipsticks + Liners

August 4, 2022

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipstick + Liner

After a few weeks of testing, I finally have a review of the new Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipsticks ($20) and Lip Liners ($15). I tried 6 of the 10 shades and while I love the colors, I have mixed thoughts on the formulas which I’d give a solid B to B+.

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipstick + Liner

The Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipsticks are creamy mattes. Formula has an almost buttery creamy feel with a matte finish. Pigment is rich and full coverage and hugs the lips. I love the packaging which has a pop-up cap with a flat end so if you lay them on a table they won’t roll off. I think the colors in this launch are beautiful and also love that they are unscented.

I’m not usually a fan of the matte lipsticks on me because they end up looking too dry for my taste. I do love mattes from Charlotte Tilbury, Pat McGrath, and Chanel and I had high hopes for the new formula from Rare Beauty. On my bare lips the Rare Beauty lipsticks look dry. If I prep with a lip primer like the MAC Prep + Prime Lip Primer it makes a world of difference for a better smoother application and look. Straight out of the tube I give these a B. With a bit of primer or smoother underneath they’re better.

The color range is stunning, but I really wish they made these in a cream or even glossy finish. I ordered mine sight unseen (they’re all in Sephora stores by now). The online swatches look darker and bolder than in real life. A lot of these will vary depending on your skin and lip tone since they’re neutrals. Since they’re full coverage my natural lip does not show through in any of these. Colors I hauled:

  • Talented is a neutral beige
  • Creative is a medium pale peach nude
  • Worth is a cool toned muted mauve
  • Humble is a rose pink mauve
  • Lively is a warm pink peach
  • Fun is a warm rose

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipsticks Review

I have the similar thoughts about the Rare Beauty Kind Words Lip Liners. I love the concept of a matching lipstick and liner and like the thoughtful packaging (these are twist ups). These are matte but still glide on the lips with a nice smooth feel. I give these a higher rating than the lipsticks. They’re a tiny bit tacky feeling to the touch once they’re applied on the lips but it does dry down to a smooth matte. I like that they help the lipstick adhere better and stay put longer. Lasting power is very good.

Rare Beauty Kind Words Lip Liners

In terms of lip liners formula comparisons I think the Huda Beauty and Makeup By Mario formulas are better. They glide on better and don’t look as matte. However the Rare Beauty lip pencils are much better than the Kosas Hotliners which I think are hard as a rock and smell like old Crayola crayons.

Rare Beauty Kind Words Lip Liners

Rare Beauty Kind Words Lipstick and Lip Liner swatches

Swatches of all the Rare Beauty lip colors on me below. I layered both the liner and lipstick together. I’m also wearing the Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer in 32N, Always an Optimist Soft Radiance Setting Powder in Light Medium, Warm Wishes Effortless Bronzer Stick in Happy Sol, Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in Hope + Encourage mixed, Too Faced Born This Way Natural Nudes Eyeshadow Palette.

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lips Talented

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lips Creative

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lips Worthy

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lips Humble

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lips Lively

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lips Fun

Rare Beauty Kind Words Matte Lipsticks

Bottom line: I love the colors, the packaging, pigment. I don’t love the matte finish because I find them a little dry looking on me, but I shouldn’t dock points off them because they’re designed to be matte. If I could have tried and swatched them all in person I would have skipped Talented and Creative, they pull a little pale on my skin tone, especially since I’m tan right now.

If you like matte lipsticks I think you will like these. If you have dry lips definitely prep with some kind of primer or balm first.

Available now at Sephora.

 

Did you try these yet? What did you think?

Beauty Favorites Nordstrom Skincare

Summer Skincare Saviors

July 18, 2022

Summer Skincare Favorites

It’s been a while since I’ve done a skincare roundup and with summer in full swing I have an updated routine with my favorites for clean and clear skin. With the heat, sunscreen and extra sweat my skin is prone to getting clogged and irritated. If you also experience the same issues during the summer, I have my current go-to’s I swear by from Nordstrom. These are my favorites to help clear out the pores and keep skin looking fresh!

Cleansers

Best Summer Skincare Cleansers Elemis, Chanel, Kiehls

Long time readers know I’m a fanatic about cleansing my skin. Keeping skin super clean and making sure I remove all traces of sunscreen and makeup at the end of the day is essential but with long wear makeup formulas it can be tricky. I rotate cleansers and use different formulas for morning vs afternoon.

Using a good makeup remover whether it’s a cleansing balm or cleansing oil is always a must. It helps break down foundation, concealer, blush etc.

I really love the Chanel Sublimage L’Huile En-Gel De Demaquillage Gel-To-Oil Cleanser ($110). I love it because it’s less messy than a regular liquid oil. The gel melts right into the skin and has that signature Sublimage scent (obsessed!). It makes the skin feel super soft and smooth and clean!

For a good cleansing oil I am currently loving the Chanel L’Huile Anti-Pollution Cleansing Oil ($50, on my third bottle) and the Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil ($53) is a classic I’ve repurchased multiple times too.

For my second step cleanser I love a wide range of brands but right now am rotating between the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash ($52) and Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cleanser ($23). Both are really good for cleansing the skin without stripping it.

Toners

Best Toners Sisley and Kiehl's

I always follow with a toner to help rebalance the skin and make sure all traces of cleanser and makeup are removed. My two go-to’s right now are from Kiehls and Sisley. The Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Toner ($12 – $20) helps moisturize the skin and refine texture. I also swear by the Sisley Balancing Floral Toning Lotion ($115) which is the best alcohol-free formula I’ve used.

For texture and resurfacing, the Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Pads ($59) have been the best resurfacing pads I’ve tried. There’s no stinging, no uncomfortable residue, and really works for smoother skin. You can use these daily but I use them 2x per week.

Pore Cleaning Masks

Best Pore Cleansing Masks Kiehl's and Glamglow

To keep the pores clear and clean I use Glamglow. The Glamglow Supermud Clearing Treatment ($25-86) is one I cannot live without (Value Set for $69 here). Anytime I feel like pimples or clogged pores are surfacing I use this and it’s the most effective AHA and BHA acid mask for problem skin. Charcoal helos absorb excess oil and toxins. Apply a thin layer and leave it on for 5-20 minutes (I usually leave it on for 10). Rinse thoroughly.

I also really love charcoal based masks/cleansers and the Glamglow SUPERCLEANSE Clearing Cream-to-Foam-Cleanser ($32) and SUPERSMOOTH Acne Clearing 5-Minute Mask ($34) are essential for my summer routine. Both are gentle enough for me to use daily but I usually have these in rotation 2-3x per week. Andrew loves these too. They’re great to absorb excess oil without stripping the skin.

Glamglow SUPERSMOOTH Acne Clearing 5-Minute Mask

If you have ultra sensitive skin the Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask Set ($40, NSALE) is the best gentle pore mask I’ve tried.

Moisturizer Routine

Sisley Skincare Favorites Black Rose

Sisley Black Rose Infusion Cream

I rotate with oils and moisturizers but really love the Sisley Black Rose Skin Infusion Cream ($220) right now. It’s the perfect lightweight moisturizer for a fresh glow. I use this as a first layer then add the Sisley Double Tenseur Moisturizing Gel ($210) on top for my perfect smooth base. They’re quite the splurge but there’s nothing quite like either!

For eye treatments I love the Sisley Black Rose Eye Contour Fluid ($165). It’s another expensive buy but 100% worth the splurge if you want a really nice lightweight eye cream. Right now Nordstrom has the Black Rose Set for the Anniversary Sale which has the full size cream, eye fluid and mini black rose mask ($230 on sale, $415 value).

La Mer Luminous Renewal Set Nordstrom Anniversary Sale 2022

La Mer is always a nice luxurious treat. I splurged on the La Mer Luminous Renewal Set ($95) from the NSALE which has travel sizes of the Cleansing Foam, The Treatment Lotion, Renewal Oil and Moisturizing Soft Cream. If you have dry skin they also have this set with the regular Crème de la Mer in the Radiant Hydration Set (also $95).

La Mer Micro Peel Review

The last thing I wanted to highlight is a new try! La Mer recently launched The Micro Peel ($270). It is a leave-on resurfacing peel treatment with AHAs, BHAs and PHAs to polish the skin and clear pores. I just started using it at night 1x to 2x per week. It has a bi-phase formula so you shake the bottle to activate the formula and mix contents. Use on clean skin and don’t rinse. You can add moisturizer on top if you want but I’ve been applying it on its own. It has a minimal tingle and I really like it so far. Will keep you posted as I can test more!

Summer Skincare Saviors Nordstrom

Sunscreen is also a very important part of my summer skincare routine but I’ve saved that for a future post (coming very soon!).

You can find all of my picks available at Nordstrom.

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Many thanks to Nordstrom for partnering to sponsor this post. As always all opinions are my own. All products purchased by me.

Nordstrom Sales

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Haul

July 11, 2022

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusives 2022

Today I have a roundup of what I checked out from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusives! I was happy to find some good deals and sales, but like most of you, was a little disappointed that the newness was limited. I was hoping for some new pretty palettes, new colors, innovative formulas but most of the makeup items were repeats of existing items packaged into sets.

That being said I do think there are still some great deals to be found. If you’ve had your eye on a simplehuman mirror, ghd flat iron, or T3 hair dryer it’s a great time to save. Or if you’re new to luxury beauty and wanted to try some popular colors like the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk or Westman Atelier there are some nice bundles!

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusives 2022

Charlotte Tilbury

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty Exclusives 2022 Charlotte Tilbury

Charlotte Tilbury launched a number of Pillow Talk sets. The Pillow Talk lipstick is one of my favorite go-to lip colors. The Pillow Talk Lip Kit ($59, value is $92) has full sizes of the Matte Revolution Lipstick, Hyaluronic Happikiss Lipstick and Lip Cheat Lip Pencil. It’s a pretty good deal and makes for a nice gift!

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Swatches

Hyaluronic Happikiss in Pillow Talk + the Eye Pencil Duo and Cheek Products

Charlotte Tilbury Hyaluronic Happikiss Lipstick in Pillow Talk

Matte Revolution in Pillow Talk

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Pillow Talk

The Pillow Talk Cheeks Set ($54, retail value is $80) has a full-size Pillow Talk Beauty Light Wand and Cheek to Chic Blush. Both are beautiful everyday staples you can wear year round.

I also picked up the Pillow Talk Eye Shadow Pencil Duo ($35, retail is $58). I love the Colour Chameleon pencils and really love the colors in this kit. The Pillow Talk shade is a gorgeous shimmery pink and the deeper color is a nice plum. Lasting power is really good once these set (recommend blending quickly).

Hourglass & Westman Atelier

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Essentials Palette

Hourglass and Westman Atelier both have repeats in their palettes and sets this year. The Hourglass Ambient Lighting Essentials Palette ($68) has Dim Light, Diffused Heat and Luminous Bronze Light. All three colors are easy to wear for an effortless polished look. I already own all three shades individually and in other palettes but bought this as a gift.

Westman Atelier’s Weekend Set

Westman Atelier’s Weekend Set ($138) has three colors in a bundle. I already own all the colors so I didn’t buy it again, but did swatch it below for those of you who haven’t tried them yet.

Hourglass and Westman Atelier swatches

There is also a Squeaky Clean Liquid Lip Balm Duo ($57) which Popsicle (bright red) and Nana (nude pink). I really love this formula!

Westman Atelier Squeaky Clean Liquid Lip Balm Duo

Westman Atelier Squeaky Clean Liquid Lip Balm Popsicle

Westman Atelier Squeaky Clean Liquid Lip Balm Nana

MAC Sets

I almost always pick up at least one of the MAC Lip sets. I swatched the two Essential Lipwear Sets and Mini Lipglass Trio for you.

The Essential Lip Wear Set in Pink has some really nice options for fall. It has the Soar Lip Pencil, Nowstalgia Lipglass and Cozy Kisses Lipstick.

MAC Lip Set in Pink

The Essential Lip Wear Set in Neutral has Boldly Bare Lip Pencil, Bare Blanket Amplified Lipstick and Glass Half Full Lipglass (full sizes). The lipstick + gloss colors in the neutral kit pull more warm/orange on me than neutral.

MAC Nordstrom Lip Set Neutral

MAC Lip Swatches

The Lipglass Mini Trio has Hygee Honey (cream beige nude), Cozy Rosy (cool pink) and The Pleasure is Mine (neutral pink).

MAC Mini Lipglass Trio

MAC LIPGLASS SWATCHES

MAC NSALE swatches

Bobbi Brown

I picked up one set from Bobbi Brown. The Dual Ended Long Wear Cream Shadow Stick Duo ($34) is nice, especially for travel! The colors in this set looked perfect for fall although all the colors are repeats. Colors are easy to layer and are also pretty much budge-proof once they set.

NSALE Bobbi Brown Dual Ended Long Wear Cream Shadow Stick Duo

Dual Ended Long Wear Cream Shadow Stick Duo

Fragrances & Skincare

Le Labo Discovery Set

There are tons of fragrance sets and jumbo sizes available too. I picked up the Le Labo Discovery Set since I love having minis in my purse with me on-the-go. Tom Ford has their Soleil Shimmer Body Oil Duo ($75) in the Soleil Blanc and Soleil Neige scents. I love these for a glow and shimmer. The scents are really beautiful too. I already own both of them so didn’t purchase the set again.

Tom Ford Mini Shimmer Body Oils

Le Labo has jumbo sizes of their Hinoki Shower Gel and Hand Soap. Both Andrew and I love these so I bought another one of each. For skincare I picked up the La Mer Luminous Renewal Set ($95) for travel minis.

NSALE Le Labo and La Mer

Hair Tools & Hair Care

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray and Gold Lust Dry Shampoo

For me Hair Care and Tools have the best deals for the sale. Oribe has repeats of previous year sets with the Gold Lust Set ($90, I restocked on this) and the Dry Texture + Dry Shampoo Set ($65).

ghd has their Platinum+ Styler* on sale for $187 and this is the best flat iron I’ve tried (full review soon). They also have their Soft Curl 1.25 inch curling iron on sale as well for $133.

ghd Platinum+ Styler

T3 has their Airluxe Hair Dryer* on sale for $133.99 (regular price $199.99) and SinglePass 1.25 Inch Ceramic Curling Iron* on sale for $113.90 (full price $169.99). The Hair Dryer is a really nice one and has multiple heat and fan settings.

NSALE T3 Airluxe Hair Dryer

Mirrors

Nordstrom Beauty Spring Launches Cle de Peau, Jo Malone, Tom Ford

I’ve received a number of questions about the simplehuman Sensor Mirror and Riki Loves Riki Lighted Mirror. I own both and use both. I use the Riki mirror almost everyday since I like to be able to see my whole face when I do my makeup. The simplehuman mirror is better for detail because it’s magnified. They’re both great. I’ve owned both for over 5 years and they’ve held up really well.

That wraps up my look at the Nordstrom Beauty Exclusives! Even though there are a lot of repeats I think there are still some great finds.

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