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Skincare

Fall Skincare Routine + New Tries

October 7, 2020

Fall Skincare Routine | Sabrina The Beauty Look Book

I have an updated fall skincare routine with a full breakdown of what I’ve been using and used up over the past few months! The weather turned here for a few short days and I almost thought we were going to have colder cooler weather but then it popped back up to the high 80s! The weather still has shifted for fall so I’ve changed up some of my moisturizers and serums. This is what I’ve been loving lately by category.

Cleansers

Best Cleansers and Makeup Removers Kate Somerville, First Aid Beauty, Bobbi Brown

I’ve been a bit obsessive with cleaning my skin multiple times a day. I always cleanse in the morning. Right before a workout and right after a workout. And then in the evening before I go to sleep.

  • Tatcha Rice Wash is a newer gentle exfoliating cream cleanser. There are tiny rice powder particles that I feel are gentle enough that I don’t feel any grit on the skin. It’s creamy when you add water and is good for normal to dry skin. (Also available in this mini duo.)
  • Kate Somerville Cleansers – all Kate Somerville cleansers in general are well loved in our home, I’ve tried all of them and always have a backup stash, for family who visit and have skin issues, I always recommend and gift them one of these when they shop/raid my beauty closet!
    • Eradikate is the best to deal with acne issues, it’s the one that has effectively prevented maskne by cleaning out the pores and any clogged areas, the 3% sulfur + oat extract helps absorb excess oil. I can rarely use anti-acne skincare because it’s often too drying or harsh and ends up stripping my skin. The entire Eradikate line is one of the few I can use that does not irritate my skin.
    • Exfolikate is best for normal to oily skin. This one has exfoliating ingredients including glycolic and lactic acid to help resurface the skin and fruit enzymes that also help with natural exfoliation. It’s not harsh even though it’s an “exfoliating cleanser”.
    • Delikate Cleanser* is the best calming cleanser I’ve tried. I will often use this in the morning and then one of her other cleansers at night.
  • First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser is a great everyday cleanser that is gentle but effective. It has a creamy almost foaming texture when you add water. Andrew loves this, my brother loves this, I love it too. I think it’s reasonably priced!
  • Sisley Triple Oil Balm Makeup Remover and Cleanser* – best makeup remover balm-oil in one, gentle and non-stripping (tied with the Farmacy Green Clean for a more budget friendly option and one that is just as good).
  • Bobbi Brown Instant Long-Wear Makeup Remover – best eye makeup remover, takes of my liner and mascara!
  • Good Molecules Facial Cleansing Mitt – I almost always use a washcloth to wash my face, but I often ruin them with makeup or mascara remnants. I ordered a few of these face mitts to use just for when I have makeup to remove or wash off and they’re small but really nice! I want to look into other brands of reusable washable cleansing cloths like this. I bought a pack of three and really like them.

Toners

Best Toners for Sensitive Skin, La Mer, Sisley and Farmacy

The top three toners I have in rotation:

  • La Mer The Tonic – this is another formula I’ve used for years that is a great no-fuss refreshing kind of toner to balance and purify the skin. (La Mer’s website also has this in a smaller travel size version.)
  • Sisley Floral Toning Lotion – this is one I’ve written about so many times. It’s alcohol free, gentle, hydrating and refreshes the skin beautifully. It’s very expensive but 100% the splurge (I have bought several bottles of this to replenish my skincare cabinet).
  • Farmacy Clean Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner – I’ve been using this on and off for a few weeks now and really like it! I find most toners with any kind of acid either are too strong or too sticky. This is one of the few I’ve tried that doesn’t turn my skin beet red or sting. I feel it’s gentle enough for my skin to not have any tingle but still effective enough to clean out my pores. (I tried the Paula’s Choice BHA toner and my face felt like it was on fire! It turned horribly red and irritated for a solid week before it finally calmed down.)

Skincare Makeup removers and Cleansers

Serum Moisturizers

Fall Skincare Routine Moisturizer and Serums

I’ve tried to improve my serum and moisturizer routine as the weather turns. I’ve included a few new items I’ve added to my routine and also wanted to mention a few Andrew uses.

  • Sisley Pure Bright Activating Serum* – this is Andrew’s favorite brightening serum. He has permanently “borrowed” this from my beauty cabinet and uses it religiously (LOL!). For his skin he’s struggled with darker sun spots on his cheek bones since we moved to Florida. This is the only product that he finds that works to brighten dark spots over time. He like that it feels lightweight, it’s simple to use and it works.
  • Sisley Hydra-Global Hydration Booster Serum* and Gel Cream Moisturizer* – the Sisley Hydra-Global line is a great one for normal to dry skin. Andrew uses these on whenever he feels dry and likes that they’re both hydrating without that greasy overly heavy feel.
  • La Prairie Skin Caviar Liquid Lift* – this is the newest serum I’ve tried and it BLEW MY MIND. It’s a lifting and firming serum with two chambers. One has a milky emulsion serum and the other has encapsulated caviar beads. To activate the serum there is a pump to mix the products together for a beautiful smoothing serum. Skin is left firm and smoother and softer. I’ve just ordered a few more La Prairie items I’ve had on my wishlist from the line and cannot wait to try them.
  • Kate Somerville Delikate Recovery Serum* and Recovery Cream* – this has been my most frequently used duo all through summer and now in the fall. It’s a great everyday calming duo that smooths the skin. I initially used it on only dry-skin days but have found it’s really versatile for me. Sometimes I will skip the serum and only use the cream.
  • Kate Somerville Peptide K8 Power Cream* – this is my second most-used moisturizer. I feel like everything Kate Somerville just works without any extra effort of fuss.
  • Kate Somerville Dilo Age-Defying Oil* – I started incorporating a few oils into my routine and have used this one again every other night. It’s my favorite!
  • Chantecaille Rose de Mail Face Oil* – This is a new to me oil which is designed to soften fine lines and brighten the skin. It has a floral rose scent but compared to other rose oils I’ve tried it has a more botanical vibe rather than straight up rose. It feels a little thicker in texture while other oils I’ve tried are more fluid but it absorbs into the skin beautifully. I just started using this so I can’t really report on the effects yet, but it’s like a veil of protective moisture.
  • Sisley Black Rose Eye Contour Fluid – this has been my go-to eye treatment for a few months. I loved it for its lightweight feel and the applicator has a beautiful cooling sensation which helps with puffiness in the mornings. It’s nearly used up and I will be trying a different eye cream soon!
  • For my night time treatment, I’ll use the Kate Somerville RetAsphere Micro Peel 2-3x per week to help with gentle resurfacing and smoothing.

Masks/Treatments

Best Sheet Masks and Hydrating Masks

My masks have been the same for months now. I’m really interested in trying new formulas but for now have stuck with what works. For hydration I alternate between the Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask (lush and thick) and the By Terry Baume de Rose Le Mask* (love how this bubbles/foams, will 100% repurchase). For a sheet mask my latest love is the La Mer Treatment Lotion Hydrating Sheet Mask. It leaves the skin feeling soft and refreshed.

For acne issues or pore clearing my Glamglow Supermud has been my go-to – I only use this when I feel like my skin needs a pore clean out.

For eye masks my go-to is still the 111Skin Sub Zero De-Puffing Eye Mask or the 111Skin Rose Gold Illuminting Eye Mask. I prefer the depuffing version. Also thanks to the recommendation of many of you I ordered a box of the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist 24 Pure Retinol Express Smoothing Eye Masks and am OBSESSED! I love how these masks hydrate and brighten. I read you can use them on smile lines but haven’t tried it there yet – I may put a few on my forehead area to try.

For acne I’ve finally gotten any spot acne under my chin under control. I think the influx in stress and hormonal issues caused skin issues for me earlier this year. For the occasional pimple I still rely on Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Spot Treatment (Andrew uses this religiously and has me buy him multiple tubes at a time) and the Kate Somerville Eradikate Acne Treatment.

Tools

Mount Lai Gua Sha and LeMieux

I’ve been neglecting almost all of my beauty tools except for a couple things. I really still like the Le Mieux Skin Perfector* which I’ve had for many many years! It’s a great gentle pore cleaner that has tiny pulses from ultrasonic waves. There are different variations and models out there from other brands but this is one that has worked for me for years so I’ve stuck with it. I have also been really liking the Mount Lai Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool in the Jade or Rose Quartz options. They both really has helped improve my circulation and radiance of the skin.

That wraps up my current fall skincare routine! As always I’d love to hear about what you’ve been loving lately! Let me know in the comments! I love getting ideas from you to see what you’re using and loving.

 

 

Press samples indicated with a *. All others purchased by me.

 

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Roundup Sales

Memorial Day Sales 2020

May 22, 2020

Warm Weather Favorites By Terry Tea to Tan, IGK Jet Lag, Rayban

Rounding up all of the Memorial Day Sales happening now for beauty! Included a few others for home and fashion. If you have any others to add let me know in the comments!

BEAUTY SALES

Antica Farmacista – Save 20% off sitewide through Monday with code MEMORIALDAY

Beautylish – Spring into Summer Event, save up to 50% off bundles

Becca Cosmetics – 30% off Sunlit Bronzer and 5 deluxe samples with purchases of $75+

Bite Beauty – 4-piece set on every $40+ order including: mini Agave+ Intensive Lip Mask in Agave, mini Outburst Longwear Lip Stain in Orange Fizz, Kiss Printed Makeup Pouch & Round Mirror, use code: SUMMERNOW ends 5/25

Bloomingdale’s – Memorial Day savings 30-50% off select items, extra 50% off marked items

By Terry – 20% off sitewide with code GLOW20, through the weekend

Clarins – Save up to 30% off select products, choose 5 travel sizes with any $100+ order, use code MDW20

Charlotte Tilbury – Save up to 22% off Magical Savings bundles

CoverFX – Use code SUNNY for 20% off all orders, plus a free gift on orders of $65+

Dermstore – 20% off sale on participating brands with code SUMMER, ends May 27

Drybar – 20% off select tools online and select shops

EM Cosmetics –

  • Spend $50 get 10% off with code HAPPY10
  • Spend $75 get 15% off with code HAPPY15
  • Spend $100 get 20% off with code HAPPY20

Farmacy Beauty – 25% off + free tote with orders $100+ with code SUMMER25

IGK Hair – 20% Off sitewide with code MAY20, ends 5/31

It Cosmetics – 25% off sitewide + free shipping, no code needed

Kate Somerville – Free full size ExfoliKate Cleanser with purchases $65+ this weekend with code EXFMAY

Kiehl’s – 15% off any sunscreen and SPF product with code SUN, ends 5/27

Kerastase – Spend more get more minis with $85 – $125 spend, use code MEM20

Lancome – 25% off sitewide, no exclusions

Molton Brown – 20% off online through 5/25, no promo required

Pat McGrath Labs – Save up to 40% off eye and lip spring products, prices as marked

Peace Out Skincare – Save 15% off sitewide with code MDAY15

REN Skincare – Weekend savings:

  • Save $10 off orders $50+ with code SAVE10
  • Save $15 off orders $70+ with code SAVE15
  • Save $25 off orders $100+ with code SAVE25

Sephora – Save up to 50% off for Memorial Day, prices marked down

Sisley Paris US – 20% off sitewide, no code needed

Smashbox – Take up to $50 off purchases

  • Spend $50 get $10 off
  • Spend $75 get $15 off
  • Spend $100 get $25 off
  • Spend $150 get $50 off

Soko Glam – Glow Savings

  • 15% off orders $50+ with code GLOW50
  • 20% off orders $85+ with code GLOW85

Tatcha – Mini Silk Canvas with orders $100+ use code SILK20

Tarte – $25 summer steals (includes palettes, shape tape and more), runs 5/22 through 5/24

T3 Micro – Spend more save more event

  • Spend $150 get $25 off with code SAVE25
  • Spend $250 get $50 off with code SAVE50
  • Spend $400 get $100 off with code SAVE100

Peace Out Skincare – 15% off with code MDAY15

Violet Grey – Summer savings at checkout

  • $15 off $100
  • $50 off $250
  • $100 off $500
  • $250 off $1,000+

HOME DECOR

CB2 – Save up to 40% off all things outdoor, added daily weekend deals change daily throughout the weekend

Crate and Barrel – Up to 40% off sitewide, exclusions apply

Pottery Barn – Buy more, save more 10% off $100 or more, 15% off $250 or more, 20% off $500 or more, 25% off $1,500 or more with code SAVEMORE

Serena and Lily – 20% off sale with code LIVEWELL

West Elm – Buy more, save more 10% off $100 or more, 15% off $250 or more, 20% off $500 or more, 25% off $1,500 or more with code SAVEMORE

Williams-Sonoma – Special limited-time savings throughout Memorial Day

FASHION / FITNESS

Alo Yoga – Save up to 50% off OMG sale items

Ann Taylor – 60% off with code SUMMER

Banana Republic – Save up to 75% off everything including new arrivals

Club Monaco – Save 25% off purchases with code LONGWEEKEND

Coach – Select styles up to 50% off

Current Elliott – Extra 60% off sale styles, prices taken at checkout

Equipment – Extra 60% off sale styles, prices taken at checkout

Frame – Save an extra 30% off sale items

Jcrew – Up to 60% off purchase with code HISUMMER

Joie – Extra 60% off sale styles, prices taken at checkout

Nike – All sale items up to 40% off

Paige – 30% off all white styles with code WHITEOUT30

Ray-ban – 20% off selected eye wear, 30% off online exclusives with code FLASHSALE

Revolve – Take an extra 20% off sale items

Sam Edelman – Start of summer sale with an extra 30% off with code MEMORIAL30

Splendid – 40% off almost everything with code THISISBIG

Stuart Weitzman – Take 40% off warm-weather styles with code NEWWEDGES

Tory Burch – 25% off select styles with code TOGETHER

 

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Haircare Sephora Skincare

Current Favorites for Skin, Body + Hair from Sephora

April 21, 2020

Best Skincare Sephora

By popular request I’m doing another updated roundup for my favorites in skin, body care and hair from Sephora! In putting together my list it I discovered that most of these are tried and true repeats. I’m a creature of habit when it comes to skincare although I love trying new things. I always try to scout out the minis or travel sets to try first. While there are quite a few brands I love that aren’t carried at Sephora (ie Oribe, Chanel, 111skin, etc). Most of what I love can be found at Sephora.

Quick recap on the spring Sephora April sale dates/details (use code SPRINGSAVE):

  • Rouge Members – Save 20% off 4/17 to 05/01
  • VIB Members – Save 15% off 4/21 to 4/29
  • Insider Tier – Save 10% off 4/23 to 4/27

To help give some context on my routine and what I use I have normal/combination skin and in my late 30s. Since moving to Florida I’ve experienced a wider range of climate changes compared to what I experienced in California. The dry season is very dry and then there are humid days where outdoors feels like a wet blanket. And there’s everything n between.

Product rotation and routine changes depending on season and also time of the month as skin oil production changes with climate (ie humidity or lack of) + hormones. I also have different products for morning vs afternoon or evening. Morning routines are pretty much the same. The afternoon/evening routine is different depending on if I have makeup on, if I just worked out, if I just went to the beach and have sunscreen + sweat on etc.

When it comes to finding a good a routine I think it depends on so many factors. If what you’re using works, no need to change it! No need to have a complicated routine but beauty is my job so I don’t mind trying out new launches and products.

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Face Cleansers + Makeup Removers

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Moisturizers + Mists + Essence

Night Treatments

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Scrubs + Exfoliators + Acne

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Hair Care

_______

Body Care + Fragrance

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Sunscreen

I had such a rough time with sunscreen last year. I really wanted to try a wider range of brands because so many of you asked how it held up in the Florida sunshine. I had so many allergic reactions, I’m scared now to try new brands. My tried and true from Sephora are from Supergoop! and Sol de Janeiro.

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Lip Treatments

_______

Hope you found this helpful! I’m picking a giveaway winner from my last giveaway today. Also I’ll be hosting another one soon at the end of the week so check back! I’m going to try my best to have the NARS summer picks and Natasha Denona haul swatched before the end of the sale.

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Sephora

Sephora Spring Sale Makeup Recommendations

April 17, 2020

Best Luxury Makeup at Sephora

I have a Sephora Spring Sale makeup recommendations roundup today since the Spring Savings Event is here again! It starts today for Rouge Members and today I have my top makeup picks roundup! I’ve split everything by category for eyes, lips, cheeks, primer and face. The details and dates are as follows for each Beauty Insider Tier:

  • Rouge Members – Save 20% off 4/17 to 05/01
  • VIB Members – Save 15% off 4/21 to 4/29
  • Insider Tier – Save 10% off 4/23 to 4/27

Use code SPRINGSAVE at checkout. Some exclusions and limits on quantities apply. Full details on their Terms and Conditions page. Note this is quite an extensive list but it’s not intended to be a list to persuade you to buy everything. So please don’t feel pressured! It’s simply meant as a resource by category for what I have tried, love and recommend. The most questions I get from readers is, “what’s the best matte lipstick?” or “what’s the best glowy foundation?” or “can you recommend an eyeliner that lasts long but doesn’t tug?” I split the recommendations by category to give you some ideas I hope will help you find what you’re looking for.

Primer

While I don’t think there is a truly one-size fits all primer, here are the ones I’ve tried that I like. My general recommendation is to use the same brand of primer and foundation. Or try to find a formula compatible with your foundation. For example if your foundation is oil-free, look for oil-free primers. Same goes for if it has silicone or is water-based.

__________

Concealer

Shades I currently use: NARS Ginger, Laura Mercier 3N or 3W, Kosas 5, Armani 6.5, Pat McGrath 13 or 14

Base/Foundation

Setting Powder/Setting Products

__________

Eye Palettes + Eyeshadow

__________

Eye Liner/Brows/Mascara

__________

Cheek Palettes

Highlighter/Blush/Bronzer

__________

Lip Gloss + Hydrating Balms

__________

Lip Liner + Lipstick

__________

Dates are as follows for each Beauty Insider Tier:

  • Rouge Members – Save 20% off 4/17 to 05/01
  • VIB Members – Save 15% off 4/21 to 4/29
  • Insider Tier – Save 10% off 4/23 to 4/27

I hope you found this roundup helpful! I’m doing a giveaway this post for the Sephora sale – one person will be selected to win a $100 eGift Card to Sephora (US site). Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older to qualify. To enter all you have to do is complete one of the steps in the widget below. The more steps you complete the more entries you get. Not sponsored or affiliated. Giveaway ends on April 20, 2020 11:59 PM EST. I’ll pick a winner within 48 hours after giveaway ends, list on this widget below and email them directly. Selected winner must respond within 48 hours to claim prize or another person will be selected.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Loving Right Now Monthly Favorites

February Beauty Favorites

February 29, 2020

February Beauty Favorites

I’m wrapping up the month with a Top 10 February Beauty Favorites roundup! It has been a challenging month for me since I was sick for quite some time. Having an allergic reaction to antibiotics was pretty scary, but I’m full recovered and optimistic next month will be much better! Here were this month’s best products.

1) Chanel Petale Le Vernis

Chanel Le Vernis in Petale

Petale Le Vernis* is part of this year’s Chanel La Fleur Et L’eau Collection and everything is stunning. I’ve been obsessed with Petale as the perfect petal pink. It’s not quite a neutral yet not too bright making it the perfect in between color. Comparison swatches on my latest Instagram post if you’re interested! Other colors in this photo are the Les 4 Ombres Warm Memories (review here), Rouge Coco Gloss in 119 (swatch here) and Ombre Premiere Laque in Quartz Rose (review here).

2) Chanel Le Blanc Rosy Light Drops

Chanel Le Blanc Rosy Light Drops

The Chanel Le Blanc Rosy Light Drops* is one of the prettiest multi-tasking highlighters I’ve tried and I LOVE the packaging! This is a pale iridescent rose liquid cased in a pump style bottle. I was chatting with my friend about these last night and she asked what I thought, my response was she needed them in her life ASAP since she’s obsessed with glowing dewy skin. You can use these as a highlighter on top of foundation, mix it in with your base or wear alone all over underneath your foundation too. It adds a soft luminescent glow and has a very soft rose scent. Since I love this formula so much I’m tempted to order the Le Blanc Healthy Light Creator Oil to try too.

Chanel Le Blanc Rosy Light Drops Swatch

3) Cuyana Tech Case

Cuyana Tech Case Favorite Makeup Bag

I’ve been loving all the things I’ve ordered from Cuyana so far and the Tech Case has been a favorite for the size and shape. It’s longer but skinny so I find it fits in my tote easier than a rounded or domed makeup bag. It’s the perfect length and size to hold essentials and I love how it’s lined with leather in side. It’s held up remarkably well! I also love the Travel Set Case and the Vanity Case (this one seems to have been slightly changed in the design).

4) Estee Lauder x Danielle Lauder Act IV Spotlight Highlighter

Estee Lauder Danielle Lauder Act IV Spotlight Highlighter

Earlier this year I partnered with Estee Lauder to share a look at the Danielle Lauder Act IV Collection and my favorite item was the Spotlight Highlighter* for its lavender and golden honey swirl. When mixed it gives the prettiest soft glow and it has been in heavy rotation. I find it so unique for me and love layering it on top of just a bronzer or blush. I think it coordinates well with the Luxe Lip Cremes* in Reel Rose and Reel Coral as well, or both of them mixed together (I layer them on top of the Lip Balm for my perfect spring lip color).

5) Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Concealer

Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Concealer LM 13

So many of you have asked me for a review of the new Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Concealer* and it’s coming soon! I was sent a selection of colors and found LM12 (more peachy) and LM 13 (more yellow) to be a great match for my under eye area to brighten. It also works to spot conceal although it’s lighter than my skin tone and has a slight peachy undertone. My current foundation shade is Light Medium 14. I’ve ordered a few more concealer colors to try before I do a full review but so far this has been one of the best concealer formulas I’ve ever tried. It blends well, covers and smooths, doesn’t oxidize or budge and doesn’t crease. The Sublime Perfection Blurring Under Eye Powder* is amazing (and a must-have). I still need to play around with all the colors but Medium seems to be great for me.

Wearing LM 13 Concealer below: Right photo has a comparison with concealer on the left side vs right side of face bare to show you the coverage/brightening, no setting powder worn (although I do recommend using one), also shown with Dior Lip Glow in Rosewood, sweater from Vince

Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Concealer LM 13 swatch

6) Estee Lauder x Danielle Lauder Act IV Brushed By Fame Makeup Brush Kit

Estee Lauder Danielle Lauder Act IV Makeup Brushes

Another favorite is the Mini Makeup Brush Set* which I pack in my makeup bag when I’m on the go. It’s perfect because it comes with a small flat pouch to keep the brushes protected. I can slip it into my tote or makeup bag and don’t have to worry about the brushes getting ruined or smashed because of the the little case.

7 through 10) Lips!

February Lip Favorites

I had so many favorite lip products this month it was hard to narrow it all down. I really love the Marc Jacobs Re(cover) Hydrating Coconut Lip Oil is so nice on the lips and has a pleasant coconut scent to it. I bought mine from Sephora (currently sold out online) but it’s also available at Neiman Marcus. I highly recommend it. It’s smooth and not sticky.

Dior’s latest Lip Glow is the Rosewood color which I think is one of the best ones yet! It gives my lips a soft rosy glow (as shown in the photo above with the Pat McGrath concealer).

Tatcha Kissu Lip Mask is back and permanent. It’s one of my favorite lip treatments for dry lips. If you haven’t tried it I think it’s a must-have!

For lip plumpers, I’ve actually found two formulas that I really love this month. One I’ll be talking about next week. But one I wanted to mention now is the Charlotte Tilbury Collagen Lip Bath because it’s now available in their cult classic Pillow Talk shade! It’s a sheer nude pink with high shine and I love how glossy it looks.

February Beauty Favorites

That wraps up my Top 10! What were your favorites?

 

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

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Hauls Sephora

New Bite Beauty Launches – Haul Picks + Review

January 30, 2020

Bite Beauty New Launches Revamp

Bite Beauty revamped their entire product lineup and I have a haul review to share today! I’m still very sad they discontinued and reformulated the best lip balm I’ve tried but I’m happy to report the new Agave+ is very good.

In today’s haul post:

Agave+ Intensive Vegan Lip Mask

Bite Beauty Agave+ Lip Mask Buzzed

There are two new Agave+ Lip Masks in Clear and Buzzed (rose gold). I bought the tinted version and was pleasantly surprised. I found it hydrating, lush, smooth and lightly scented just like the original just a little less fruity smelling.

Buzzed is a deeper color vs the original Champagne, but it pretty much applies like a very sheer, almost clear shimmer on my lips. I found both new and original formulas worked pretty much the same on my lips. I did not notice any bad taste or bad smell for Buzzed. The only difference is the color and the newer version seems to be slightly thinner in texture, but it’s very very slight.

I’m surprised at all the overwhelmingly negative reviews online at Sephora for the new formula, although most of them seem to be for the Clear Agave color which I did not try. I was full on prepared to hate the new formula, but I don’t. Still I am upset the original was discontinued and wish they had added a new one to the line rather than pull the cult classic.

Bite Beauty Agave+ Lip Mask Buzzed swatchesBuzzed vs Champagne

Bite Agave Lip Mask Buzzed vs Old Champagne

Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayon

Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayon review

I really love the new Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayons although they are heavily scented with a fruity scent. They’re described as matte but they still have a slight creamy sheen to the finish on my lips – which is actually a plus since I prefer it that way. These are twist up lip crayons with ultra rich pigment and long lasting power. They’re one swipe wonders pigment-wise although since they’re in crayon form, you do have to swipe multiple times to fill the entire lip. I went for the neutrals. Many of the colors are already sold out online at Sephora, but you can still find them in store (use the zip code locator on their website) and also at Bite Beauty. Colors I bought:

  • Sugarcane – pale creamy pink
  • Amaretto – perfect neutral nude
  • Leche – nude pink
  • Calvados – medium brown nude
  • Glace – mauve
  • Nonino – soft berry mauve
  • Honeycrisp – bright coral pink

Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayons

Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayon swatches

Bite Beauty Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayon swatches lips

I didn’t have any of the original lipsticks or pencils to compare. I did a major purge the last move we did over the summer and got rid of a lot of older products I had. Off the top of my head the new Glace looks darker/cooler than what I remember it being and on my complexion it makes me look like death. Sugarcane also feels like it’s lighter/more pastel than what I remember the lipstick being. All the other colors are solid wins for me. My top three favorites are Amaretto, Leche and Nonino.

Below looks wearing Leche and Honeycrisp. Foundation + powder are the new Bite formulas listed below.

Bite Powder Move Lip Crayon in Leche

Same products listed above, lip color is Honeycrisp:

Bite Powder Move Lip Crayon in Honeycrisp

Changemaker Skin-Optimizing Primer Normal to Oily

Bite Beauty Changemaker Skin Optimizing Primer Review

There are two primers in the lineup called the Changemaker Skin-Optimizing Primer. I opted for the Normal to Oily version and this is my least favorite product I tried. I used it a few different ways: on bare skin, over the Tatcha Water Cream, over the Tatcha Dewy Cream and over the Sisley Black Rose Skin Infusion Water Cream. The primer was not compatible with any moisturizer I tried. There was tons of separation from the moisturizer and foundation any time I used the primer.

If you are looking for a good mattifying product that doesn’t add any color to the skin this is a great product. As a foundation primer though it didn’t work for me – it caused the foundation on top to separate no matter how I tried. It also had a silicone feel that sat on my skin in an unpleasant way and made my skin feel a little itchy. Luckily I did not get any allergic reactions but this one was a solid miss for me.

Changemaker Supercharged Micellar Foundation and Flexible Coverage Pressed Powder

Bite Beauty Changemaker Foundation and Powder

For the bases I swatched a few colors in store and decided on M70 for the foundation and Medium 1 for the powder. I found both compatible with my moisturizers (just did not work well with the Bite Beauty primer).

The Changemaker Supercharged Micellar Foundation has smooth medium coverage and is easy to blend with fingers or a sponge. It looks very natural and has a semi-matte finish. There’s enough pigment to cover my freckles and sun spots. I was torn between M65 and M70, I’m probably in the middle right now. Since I’m at my lightest right now and tan easily I opted for M70 which is just a tad too dark but will be an exact match once the sunshine returns.

I found it lasted a long time on my skin, but depending on the moisturizer I used it did have a tendency to settle around my mouth/smile lines a little. Otherwise it performed really well and held up all day without separating or fading. It does have a silicone-like feel to it but it’s not irritating or heavy. I really liked that there was no darkening or oxidation on my skin. I like it a lot but it’s not my favorite formula.

I found the Flexible Coverage Pressed Powder shades odd as a lot of them looked really peachy. Powders tend to darken a lot on my skin so I went with a color I thought would be a little bit lighter. Medium 1 works perfectly for my skin – it’s semi-sheer and applies smoothly with a brush to set/mattify the entire face. It’s very lightweight and I like it a lot! I haven’t tried it with other foundation formulas but I love it with the Bite Beauty foundation.

Bare skin, applying foundation, foundation all over and then set with powder below, wearing Changemaker Supercharged Micellar Foundation in M70 and Pressed Powder in Medium 1. Sweater by Everlane.

Bite Beauty Foundation and Powder before after bare skin

Overall I found the new Agave+ Lip Mask and Power Move Creamy Matte Lip Crayons to be hits for me. I really wanted to love the new base products but it’s not 100% love. The primer is a miss. The foundation and powder are good, but not holy grail material for me. I will continue to reach for them and use both, but they’re not must-haves.

Have you checked out the new Bite Beauty launches yet? What did you think of the new lip mask versus the original?

 

 

You can find the new Bite Beauty launches at Sephora and online at Bite Beauty. I hauled my picks from Sephora.

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Roundup Skincare

Winter Skin Care Loves

January 9, 2020

Winter Skin Care Savers

makeup bag set from Cuyana

It’s our third winter in Florida and I cannot believe how the time has flown! It feels like it was just a short while ago that we were driving across the country to start a new chapter of our lives. Most of the year we find Florida to be sunny and warm but we’ve had a cold winter (it’s been colder than I remember it being in past years) and everything is significantly more dry. My skin has definitely felt it and so I’ve changed up my routine. Here are some things I’ve been loving recently for lips, hands and body to combat the dry weather.

Hydrating Lip Favorites

Favorite Hydrating Lip Essentials NARS, Hourglass, EM Cosmetics, Fresh

I’m still recovering from shock that Bite Beauty discontinued my holy grail lip mask and I know many of you are too. They’ve done some sneak peeks of their brand revamp on social and they’re launching their new Agave+ Intensive Vegan Lip Mask on January 10th at Sephora. I will be ordering it to try out. In the meantime, what I have in rotation now:

  • NARS Afterglow Lip Balms* are my most reached for balms these days. I always keep one in my purse! The original Orgasm shade swatched here. New spring shades swatched here. I’m constantly asked for an alternative to the Dior Addict Lip Glow because they often shift to an unflattering color. The ones from NARS have a more subtle color change and are nicely hydrating. I can wear it to the gym, use it for touch ups or on low-key makeup days.
  • By Terry Baume de Rose (mini size shown which was limited-edition) is the thickest most lush hydrating pot lip balm I’ve tried. It’s also one of the most expensive lip splurges I’ve made and repurchased several times over because I do think it’s 100% worth it. I will need to repurchase the full size very soon as I’ve nearly finished all the minis I’ve kept on hand.
  • EM Cosmetics Lip Cushion in Magic Hour* is more of a color product rather than skincare, but it’s the most hydrating lipstick I’ve ever tried! It feels lush and hydrating and smooth on the lips and is very comforting. I feel like it is a truly universally flattering color (as described) and it comes in the prettiest peachy pink nude with a lush shine. I hope they will launch this in more colors! Full review + swatches soon.
  • Hourglass No. 28 Lip Treatment Oil in any of the tinted shades are the best lip oils I’ve tried. There are a number of “oil-infused” launches this spring and I will be doing an updated lip roundup soon. Many of them just don’t hold up to my expectations for hydration. A lot of them will add a nice shine to the lips like a gloss but don’t have the same hydrating properties like a true oil. As expensive as the Hourglass ones are I think they’re among the best. You can see the tinted versions swatched in my last year’s balm hits and misses here.
  • Fresh Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment is a balm I always find myself gifting away. I accumulate a lot from GWPs, press samples and various sets so I’m always splitting them up and sending them off to friends, family and readers. I finally decided to keep one and try it for myself and WOW! This is significantly more hydrating than the regular Fresh Sugar Lip Treatments (ones with tint) and I absolutely love it. It’s hydrating, smooth, smells delicious and prevents peeling. Also available in mini size in various sets like this 6-piece Travel Size Set, Travel Duo, On-The-Go Set to name a few.

Body + Hand Care

Winter Skincare Hand and Body Creams

For the body I’ve been loving a few unscented body creams or super light oils. As much as I love a good fragranced body lotion or cream, sometimes I just want something that won’t interfere with my perfume or one I can sleep in easily. Sometimes heavily perfumed face products or body creams prevent me from falling asleep.

Two body creams I’ve been loving are the Necessaire Body Lotion in the Fragrance Free version. I ordered it over the holiday as I’ve seen it everywhere on Instagram and I was influenced to buy it. I really like that it’s hydrating, smooth and has a soft velvety dry down. It absorbs into the skin nicely and doesn’t feel too heavy. I think it’s reasonably priced. (On the nails is the new Chanel Le Vernis in Daydream, review soon.)

I’ve also loved the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Nude Cream which I reviewed last November when it launched (it made my favorites list). It’s now also available at Sephora. I still use it almost every day and love how it’s hydrating, soothing and smooths out the skin. I’m not the biggest fan of the packaging because I find it a little bulky but it’s not a deal breaker and I actually do like the pump. It has a soft velvety dry down so it’s not greasy feeling. I feel like this is like the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream in body cream form (many of my friends have told me they’ve used the face cream as body cream).

I also wanted to mention that the Kate Somerville Dry Skin Saver is another great unscented body cream that works for my skin. Both Andrew and I really like it.

For body oils the Chanel Gentle Oil for Body and Hair* has been at the top of my list for body oils. It’s lightweight, absorbs beautifully, makes the skin ultra soft and has the most beautiful lightweight fresh scent. If you’re familiar with the Fresh Body Cream version, the oil smells the same.

For hand creams I’ve been reaching for the Chanel La Creme Main Texture Riche and Le Lift the most. Some other of my favorites I’ve had in rotation in my Hand and Nail Care Essentials post.

Skin Care Loves

Winter Skincare Favorites Chanel, Augustinus Bader, Joanna Vargas and Fresh

For skincare my favorite moisturizer is still the Chanel Hydra Beauty Camellia Water Cream* for it’s lightweight texture and beautiful finish. On days I need extra moisture I’ve found myself loving the SkinRX Lab MadeCera Cream* that I got from Soko Glam for an ultra calming and affordable hydrating cream. (Full review here.)

I’ve also really been loving the Augustinus Bader Cream and Rich Cream. I ordered a limited-edition set from their site but they now have the 15 ml available at Sephora and they still have the Duo Set 2 x 30 ml available at Nordstrom. I’ve been testing the Augustinus Bader Cream, Rich Cream and Victoria Beckham Cell Rejuvinating Moisturizing Primer for several weeks now. The Rich Cream is the best for winter or very dry skin. The Cream is my favorite for year round for my skin type. Both of these made my skin look significantly smoother and healthier. I think the Victoria Beckham version is nice for summer but it is the lightest out of the three and didn’t add a significant amount of moisture for my skin.

I will most likely be purchasing the regular Cream in the larger size once I’ve used up the mini.

For a more affordable option that works I’ve also been loving the Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Face Cream. The rose scent is subtle and isn’t overpowering once it absorbs into the skin. I like that it really is super hydrating without feeling heavy or greasy. It calms my skin on the days it has flare ups from allergic reactions. It soothes when it’s super dry and itchy. I think it’s a nice one to try!

For night time I usually let my skin breathe naturally without product except lip balm or eye cream, but I have started using the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate Oil again and love it. It helps balance out the skin overnight and is a great moisturizer that absorbs into the skin. You can also find it in a mini size in their Nourishing Essentials Set that comes with their Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado.

For eyes I’ve been rotating between the Tatcha Silk Peony Melting Eye Cream* and the Kiehl’s Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. Both are super hydrating and have helped smooth out those tiny little lines that creep up when my skin is dry. I alternate between the two for day or night. They are on the rich/heavy side so when the hot humid weather returns to Florida these will most likely only be used at night for me.

For face-mists I’ve been loving the Chanel Sublimage La Brume for extra moisture but with a super fine mist. I feel like a broken record raving about it but I truly love it. I never want to be without it.

For sheet masks my I feel like my favorites will forever be the 111Skin ones. I have tried a few other ones recently (roundup soon) and really love the Joanna Vargas Forever Glow Anti-Aging Face Mask for a hydrating calming one and the Twilight Face Mask for deeper moisture and softening. The Forever Glow feels fresh and hydrating while the Twilight is heavier and makes the skin feel like baby’s skin. She has a Glow to Go Mask Set that has one of every sheet mask formula if you want to try them out before buying a full set.

That wraps up my winter skincare favorites! Would love to hear what yours are right now. I know Florida has a mild winter compared to other places, but it’s still dry and I hope this roundup gives you some ideas on what to try in case you’re looking for extra moisture for your skin.

I have the new Bite Beauty launches on my radar and also really want to try the Drunk Elephant F-Balm Mask. Also in case you missed it last year the Tatcha Kissu Lip Mask is finally back!

 

 

Press samples featured have a * next to them.

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