Summer’s in full swing and I could not be happier that we now have a pool and also live within minutes of the beach! The summer humidity and heat has officially returned and I’ve been changing a few things up in my beauty routine. I’ve partnered with Sephora to share some new makeup discoveries I’ve had in rotation now that the heat is here.
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Bronze and Glow
There are so many new bronzer and highlighters this season. I plan on doing a full bronzer roundup soon, but the Fenty Beauty Sun Stalk’r Instant Warmth Bronzers are some of the best matte options I’ve tried. I bought the two lightest shades in Inda Sun and Shady Biz, both offer a soft natural matte hint of warmth. Inda Sun almost matches my skin tone and pulls very neutral, so if you’re fair or light skinned, I highly recommend you check it out. Shady Biz is what I’ve been loving for a very natural bronze. It’s smooth, doesn’t oxidize, isn’t heavy or overly matte.
I also hauled the new Dior Backstage Glow Face Palette in Glitz. The top two shades are more glitzy with tiny micro sparkles which I think look pretty on the eyes. The bottom shades have a smoother more refined shimmer I can wear on the face. The overall effect is a soft golden glow. It has a superfine texture that adheres to the skin and stays put all day, even in intense heat.
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Lip Loves
For the lips I’ve been loving the NARS Oil-Infused Lip Tints – Orgasm was the first color launched and they just added three new shades that give a slight hint of color. The new ones are pretty sheer and on my lips they don’t have the same color-changing properties Orgasm does, but they’re ultra smooth and hydrating. My lips get ultra dry with the heat outdoors or the constant A/C indoors, these feel super emollient and comforting. I’m wearing Primal Instinct below. Other lip favorites include the Becca Glow Lip Gloss in Tiger Lily for a perfect bright peach, Pat McGrath LUST Gloss in Bronze Divinity (or any of the colors) for a good non-sticky gloss and Marc Jacobs Enamored Hi-Shine Lip Gloss in Some Girls is a fun punchy peach. For days I don’t want color the Fenty Beauty Pro Kiss’r Luscious Lip Balm is a nice smooth balm with a sponge applicator. I like the packaging and it’s super soft on the lips. On me it’s clear.
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Hair, Sunscreen + Body Essentials
Florida humidity is intense here. I need lots of help with styling products to help smooth the frizz or absorb oil from sweat. I’m always looking for new products to try, but rely on old favorites the IGK Mistress Anti-Frizz Leave In Conditioner (smooths out flyaways and helps with the frizz) and Briogeo Farewell Frizz (as a heat protectant for blow drying my hair).
For summer date nights I’ve been adding a little of the Sol de Janeiro Glowmotions in Rio Sunset or Copacabana Bronze to the legs. It adds a super subtle but pretty pearlescent sheen. A little goes a long way. If you’re a fan of sweet warm scents you’ll love it.
That wraps up some of my new beauty favorites from Sephora! Don’t forget to check out their Beauty Insider Program so you can accumulate points for samples and early access to their events. Have you hauled any of the new launches recently in makeup, skincare or haircare? Let me know in the comments!
Sponsored by Sephora. As always all opinions are my own.
I have a quick haul post for what I picked up from Sephora! I still have some things in my online cart for products we could not find in our store but these are the skincare, hair care and other beauty picks both Andrew and I bought during the spring bonus event. It ends today Monday May 6th so there’s still time to shop! Details for the tiers on their Beauty Insider page for details on how to join. Discounts as follows:
Rouge Members get 20% off, 4/26 through 5/6 with code HEYROUGE
VIB Members get 15% off, 5/2 through 5/6 with code HEYVIB
BI Members get 10% off, 5/2 through 5/6 with code HEYINSIDER
With the exception of our restocks I haven’t been able to test most of the makeup products. Reviews to follow as soon as I can but I have a lot already pre-planned to post for this week so the swatches for the lip products most likely won’t be up until sometime next week.
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Skin + Hair Picks: Sabrina’s and Andrew’s
I still remember distinctly when Andrew refused to go into Sephora with me. Anytime we were shopping together he would see me walk towards the store and say, “meet me at (x place) when you’re done.” He’s always been a well-groomed person but I can’t express how happy it makes me that in the past couple of years he has taken a bigger interest in skincare and taking care of our health and wellness. These days he goes in the store with me to shop the skincare areas and wanders off to do his own browsing.
I’ve been really loving Fenty Beauty the more and more I try from the line. I bought two highlighters in the Killawatt Freestyle in Afternoon Snack/Mo Hunny and Foil Freestyle Highlighter in Penny4uthots. I tried the duo today and think it’s so so pretty. I also picked up the two lightest matte Sun Stalk’r Bronzers in Inda Sun and Shady Bix. I haven’t had a chance to try them yet but took a quick peek at them in store. I’ve been really interested in the Pro Filter Powder but the testers look so chalky in store on my hand. I opted for a mini in Cashew which I have on my face right now and it’s too dark but could possibly work in the summer for me. I’m not sure if I’ll go back for the lighter shades. From Charlotte Tilbury I bought one of the Glowgasm Highlighters in Peach (ordered the rest online).
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Lip Haul Picks
I spotted two new Bobbi Brown Crushed Liquid Lips and picked the lighter shade East Coast Slay. It’s a pale nude yellowish beige cream. I also saw the new Hourglass Unreal Lip Glosses and wanted every single color. I bought 5 in Ignite, Truth, Prose, Canvas and Cosmic. I tested Truth yesterday and really like it – it’s smooth and not sticky with good coverage. Has a minty scent to it but not really plumping on me (no tingle). I’ll keep you posted! I also opted for one of the Dior Stellar Shine in D-Galaxy. I had high hopes for these but none of the other colors really spoke to me. If you think there are any that I should check out let me know in the comments!
My haul picks:
Still in my cart:
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That wraps up my Sephora haul! I think I might order a few more of the Hourglass Lip Glosses even though I don’t need anymore. The Sephora Beauty Insider Event ends tonight – what did you end up hauling?
The Sephora Beauty Insider Spring Bonus Event opens up to all Beauty Insiders today! It’s available both online and in stores now through 5/6 with the following codes:
Rouge Members receive 20% off purchases with code HEYROUGE
VIBs receive 15% off with code HEYVIB
Beauty Insiders receive 10% off with code HEYINSIDER
If you’re not a Beauty Insider yet you can still join (details here). You’ll get access to events and beauty rewards as you accumulate points with all your purchases. Last week I rounded up my go-to skincare and haircare favorites. Today I’m excited to partner with Sephora to share my Top 25 makeup go-to’s that I use every week. As a beauty blogger I frequently rotate products as I test and review the newest launches. Still many of you want to know what my daily staples are. While I don’t use the same things everyday I do have a handful of products that are in my beauty routine every week without fail. Here are my Top 25!
For primers I often rotate depending on what base I use. Whenever someone asks me “what’s the best primer?” my answer is dependent on what base you use. It’s best to use something that’s compatible, ie oil free primers with oil free bases etc. My most-used primer is the Tatcha Silk Canvas (6). It helps keep everything in place on my face and works with most of my foundations. They now have it in a mini size which I just bought! I’m restocking on the full size because I’m nearly out of my larger one.
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Set
Long-time readers can guess what my favorite setting powders are because you will usually see the same powders used in every single makeup breakdown. For loose powder my top picks are Laura Mercier Translucent Loose (7) and Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder (8). Both work to set every kind of liquid or cream foundation without looking cakey or heavy. They keep everything looking soft and matte without looking dry. For pressed powders I swear by the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish (9) for a perfect blurred finish and the La Mer Pressed in Light or Medium (10) for a sheer natural finish.
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Blush
I like to keep things glowy and soft for blush on most days so I prefer blushes that have a little shimmer and glow mixed in. For the person who is afraid to wear blush the Charlotte Tilbury Cheek to Chic (11) blushes are really perfect. They have two shades in each compact to give you depth and dimension without looking overdone. My most-worn shade is Love Glow which is a perfect pinky peach. If you want a nude opt for First Love (best nude blush ever) or Pillow Talk for that perfect pinky brown flush. I also love layering Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blushes (12) on because they have highlighter and pigment in one. Incandescent Electra is my go-to soft coral.
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Eyes
My go-to eye makeup products are the ones that are easy to use. For brows I alternate between the Diorshow Brow Styler (13) in Universal Brown or Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz (14) in Medium Brown or Caramel (depending on my highlights). They come with a spoolie at the end to brush out. I love that they have a twist up format so no sharpening required! I also use the Hourglass Arch Fiber Brow Gel (15) on a regular basis to groom and fill in brows without looking too heavy.
For eyeshadows I swear by the Laura Mercier Caviar Eye Sticks (16). I use these almost daily as an all over base for powder shadows or just on easy makeup days for an all over wash. Rose Gold and Copper are the best shades for me! I also really love the Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize Cream Shadow (17) in Bette. It’s the perfect shimmering gold for a lid color.
For eyeshadow palettes my go-to’s have changed over the years from neutral to more neutral warm. Since moving to Florida and getting more tan I find I’ve gravitated towards warmer colors! My top two palettes are Tom Ford Eye Color Quad in Honeymoon (18) which is my second one because I’ve used it so much and hit pan and the new Natasha Denona Mini Nude Eyeshadow Palette (19) which I’ve used every week since discovering it. Both offer a complete eye look with light and deep shades.
The best shimmer shadow is the Hourglass Scattered Light Eyeshadows (20). Anytime someone asks me what my shimmer shadow is, it’s usually one of these layered on top of powder shadow for that added glow! I think every color is a must-have. I bought every single one and love them but the two colors that get the most compliments are Blaze and Smoke.
Below wearing the Pillow Talk Liner, adding Fenty Glow on the right:
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That wraps up my most-used go-to makeup products that I have in rotation every single week! Some product categories are missing because I rotate each week and can’t commit to just one or two! For example I probably alternate highlighters the most frequently because sometimes I like liquid, other days I prefer powder. Same goes for eyeliner, mascara, etc.
I hope you enjoyed this makeup roundup! I can share what I ended up hauling if you’re interested (let me know in the comments)! In the meantime here is what I plan on hauling during the Beauty Insider event. I already picked up a few things but will probably make one more stop for some more things to try.
To recap, event is going on both in stores and online at Sephora:
Rouge Members receive 20% off purchases with code HEYROUGE
VIBs receive 15% off with code HEYVIB
Beauty Insiders receive 10% off with code HEYINSIDER
Shop my favorites in this post, face, cheeks and eyes:
Favorites for lips:
Many thanks to Sephora for partnering to sponsor this post! Press samples featured include the Laura Mercier Flawless Fusion, Laura Mercier Translucent Loose, Bobbi Brown Crushed Lip, Pat McGrath LUST Gloss, Hourglass Veil Powder. As always all opinions my own.
Spring beauty launches are here in full swing and there is so much to explore this season! I love that there is literally something for everyone this season whether you want something glowy or matte, sheer or full coverage etc. Most of my new discoveries are from Sephora so I’ve teamed up with them to share my top beauty picks for a spring makeup bag refresh.
I feel like my go-to concealer is always going to be the NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in Ginger but I still love trying out new formulas. Many of you like the ones that are creamy and lightweight for under the eyes. I’ve recently discovered the Armani Power Fabric High Coverage Stretchable Concealer in 6.5 and think it’s an excellent alternative for a similar blendable feel but with a semi-matte finish. It has a creamy easy to blend feel making it really nice for under the eyes. I am a 6.5 in the Luminous Silk Formula and usually like to match my concealer shade, but you might want to go a shade down if you need extra brightening. The Laura Mercier Flawless Concealer is another great lightweight option that isn’t quite as creamy as the NARS but still blends nicely. I wear 3W in this formula.
Three Go-To Cheek Products
There are a lot of great cheek palettes out this season but I’m really liking what I already own for this spring transition. I find the best natural bronzer to warm up the skin without looking overdone is the Becca Sunlit Bronzer. The shade options go from light to deep so there is something for everyone – even super fair skin girls who feel like they cannot wear any bronzer. I also think for spring anything peachy or pink-gold is universally flattering. You can’t go wrong with something like NARS Orgasm. For a natural cream highlight that won’t look greasy or too sparkly I highly recommend the NARS Super Radiant Booster.
Neutral Eyeshadow Colors
The eyeshadow palette I’ve been most excited about is the Urban Decay Naked Reloaded Palette. It’s a really pretty updated version of their original Naked and I’m 100% obsessed. For something deeper with more mattes opt for the NARS Skin Deep. If you want something simpler for an easy everyday wash of color on the lids I’ve always sworn by the Laura Mercier Caviar Eye Sticks. I often layer 2 colors together and then add a liner for a super quick and easy eye.
Spring Lip Must-Haves
I’m still really loving the Bobbi Brown Crushed Liquid Lip. They’re probably my most reached-for lip products this year. Mixing and layering the colors will give the best effect – I love mixing Lychee Baby with Juicy Date or Peach and Quiet. For a tint and balm in one you really can’t find anything better than the Dior Addict Lip Glow. I’ve loved the classic shades like Coral for years now, but my favorite is the Rose Gold option. If you want to splurge on a tint + oil the Hourglass N. 28 Lip Treatment Oil in Adorn is a really pretty pink rose.
That wraps up my spring makeup bag roundup refresh for the best things I’ve seen so far this year. If you’re shopping at Sephora make sure you take advantage of their Beauty Insider Program! You can accumulate points every time you shop for minis and early access to launches and events throughout the year. As always I’d love to hear what you have in your spring makeup bag right now! Or what you have on your spring wishlist/radar!
As promised I have my Sephora Beauty Insider Event haul and a giveaway! I shopped both online and in store during the days for Rouge savings. If you’re a VIB Member the good news is that this weekend is your weekend to shop the event! You can save 20% off your purchases in store and online from 11/9-11/12 with code VIBBONUS at checkout.
In case you missed my roundup recommendations, you can find my top makeup picks and top skin/hair and body picks detailed with links to previous reviews and swatches where applicable. I had so much on my wishlist that I wanted to stock up on but tried to limit myself to a few newer things that I have been wanting to try. I highly recommend browsing online first even if you’re heading to the store. Some things are online only and there are some better value sets online as well. I haven’t had a chance to try everything but I do have some first impressions on things I have tried.
Makeup Picks
Three of these things I picked up before the sale. I hauled some Too Faced items because I caved to the hype. I asked many of you on Instagram if you thought these lived up to all the raves and it was a 50/50 split. What I bought:
Too Faced Hangover 3-in-1 Replenishing Spray (mini) – I haven’t had a chance to test this on the face, according to feedback from you it’s a hydrating spray but not the best as a makeup setting spray
Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Face Primer – I tried this a couple times and can’t really tell if it makes a difference, it has a pleasant coconut-like scent to it and does have a hydrating feel, it is silicone-free so I’m trying to test it with silicone-free foundations
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara had really mixed reviews, based on a poll I did on Instagram, a handful told me it was your holy grail, but most did not like it. I tried the Waterproof version and it clumped like crazy I’ve decided to try the original.
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb in Diamond Milk is such a pretty white pearl, I bought and tried the original Fenty Glow but couldn’t stand the scent. I decided to try it again in the newer white color (it smells the same) and love the way it looks, undecided about the scent.
Dior Addict Lip Glow in Rose Gold is a Sephora exclusive. I knew I had to have it. I’ve tried it and think it’s pretty. It’s one of the more sparkly ones. It didn’t really shift in color after applying it like the other shades do. Just a lot of sparkle but finish is smooth (no gritty finish from the shimmer).
Skincare Picks Part 1
REN CARE Gift Set has some calming product I’ve been wanting to try including the Evercalm Day Cream, Rescue Mask and Firming Beauty Shot. As we go into the colder dry season my skin is prone to irritation. I have high hopes as the day cream has been highly recommended by so many.
Shiseido Facial Cotton was a restock as the Sephora Collection Cotton Pads were out of stock online when I ordered (they’ve since restocked).
Fresh Rose Toner Mini was something I picked up at checkout. I’m always a sucker for minis and since I love the Rose Floral Toner Spray version decided to try this one.
Drunk Elephant Mega Haul
I hauled quite a bit of Drunk Elephant. I’ve loved their Baby Facial and Protini Polypeptide Cream. I even have Andrew using these! He’s obsessed and told me to restock on those. There are a lot of great sets with minis to try, some are online only. So many of you have asked for more Drunk Elephant reviews so I’m going to put what I purchased to the test and let you know.
A few thoughts on what I’ve tested and what to buy. If you’re interested at all in the Baby Facial, I’d recommend just getting The Big Reveal Kit (online only). The Lippe Balm is a lot nicer than I anticipated! I’m wearing it right now as I type up this post. It’s hydrating, doesn’t really have a scent, feels nice 🙂 My skin loves the B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum. I’m currently recovering from a skin flare up (due to 1 of 3 possible things I’m almost certain I’ve narrowed it down, but need to do some more testing on my face to be sure). The serum instantly relieved redness and soothed my skin.
I’ve tried the cleanser and think it’s nice but need to do more testing. Andrew is not a fan of the tinted sunscreen, but since he doesn’t really seem to be a fan of physical sunscreens it did not surprise me. We have a lot of testing to do, will keep you posted!
Hair Care Picks
Hair care picks include a few more Aquis Waffle Luxe Towels for workouts and so I have extra ones for my hair. I’ve been in search of a hair spray that is just a hair spray. These days there are so many added things in sprays like texture, volume, shine, etc. I think that’s great, but sometimes I just want something simple. The girls in the Sephora store recommended Living Proof so I picked up the Flex Spray in the mini size. A large number of you confirmed on Instagram stories that this is your favorite so I have high hopes!
For tools I ordered the T3 Whirl Trio before the sale but wanted to give it a mention. It’s always nice to be able to save on more expensive things like curling wands. I have dryers and straighteners I love but didn’t have a curling iron. This one has three interchangeable wands without the clips. I’ve played with it for a few weeks now and really love it. It heats up quickly and also comes with a glove to protect your hand so you don’t burn your fingers.
I also ordered a mini packet of the Christophe Robin Shade Variation Care Nutritive Mask with Temporary Coloring in Warm Chestnut. I tried it last night and left it on for only 5 minutes. I’m almost at the 3 week mark post highlights and color is starting to fade. Since my hair was lifted it’s now getting a little lighter. The mask darkened my highlights in a subtle but noticeable way from honey to a slightly chestnut red brown. I think I could have left it on a little longer for a deeper effect but so far I like it! Hair is softer since it is a mask. I used up 1/2 the mini packet since I have a lot of hair and it is long. It’s supposed to last 3-5 washes. I’ll keep you updated on this. I really love all the things I’ve tried from Christophe Robin.
For masks I restocked on the Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Hair Mask. It also comes in this cute Mystical Minis Revive and Repair duo set if you want to try it in a smaller size. I had a chat with a friend about hair care the other day on shampoos and hair treatments for colored hair. Based on reader recommendations I bought the Oribe Color Safe Shampoo and Conditioner, but many of you also recommended the Kerastase Reflection Chromatique line. My friend swears by the same Kerastase (she said the one in the bright pink tubes) which is available at Sephora now. I wish I had ordered them during the Rouge event days! I might still place an order as I go through shampoo really fast anyways and will probably use up the Oribe very soon.
That wraps up my Sephora haul! I have a never ending list of things I want to try and I’m sure you do too! If you’re shopping the Sephora Beauty Insider Event for VIB, uou can save 20% off your purchases in store and online from 11/9-11/12 with code VIBBONUS. There are exclusions and restrictions on their website so make sure you check the details. You can shop the post here:
I’m hosting another giveaway! I’m going through my beauty vault and picked out some Tom Ford Beauty items including a few harder to find items to giveaway to 1 winner. Open internationally but you must be 18 years or older. Items I’m giving away include brand new full sizes of 7 items including: Tom Ford Waterproof Extreme Mascara, Lip Slick in Spiked Chery, Moisturecore Lipstick in Pipa, Eyeshadow Duo in AW16, Lips + Boys Cooper, Lips + Boys Jagger and Duo Blush in Lavender Lure.
To enter for a chance to win simply enter through the widget below with at least one of the steps.
Giveaway runs through 11/13/2018 11:59 PM EST. One winner will be picked within 48 hours and contacted by e-mail. They must respond within 24 hours or another winner will be selected in their place. Not sponsored or affiliated.
I’m have Part 2 of my beauty recommendations for the second weekend of the Sephora Holiday Bonus Beauty Insider Event! This weekend continues with savings for Rouge Tier Members. This roundup focuses on my top makeup favorites for bases, cheeks, eyes and lips. You can find Part 1 Skin, Body and Hair recommendations here. Dates, codes and details:
Rouge get 20% Off 11/2-11/5 with code: ROUGEBONUS
VIB get 20% off 11/9-11/12 with code: VIBBONUS
Insiders/ Non-BI members get 15% off 11/16-11/19 with code: BIBONUS
Terms, conditions and exclusions listed here. I tried to narrow my absolute top picks and favorites limiting myself to under 10 per category. There are so many good products available right now, especially with holiday beauty launches. Most of these are products I consider tried and true staples but there are a few newer items I’ve tried recently I think are really worth the splurge. Products that are press samples have a * next to them.
La Mer Luminous Lifting Cushion Foundation is new, I was thrilled to find a match in Warm Bisque, review coming soon but it is amazing and it comes with a refill. I will say I do think there are color gaps, definitely try before you buy. I suspect when I lose my summer tan this color I’ve bought will definitely be too dark. It’s also very dewy in finish but will set well if you finish with a powder. I’ve since re-sampled the Soft Fluid Long Wear Foundation at the counter and really want to buy it, I’m in between Beige and Suede though.
Tom Ford Waterproof Foundation and Concealer was my previous favorite full coverage foundation, it’s still very natural looking and lasts all day, I still love this one but the LM wins for now.
Erborian BB Creme or CC Creme are my favorites for natural finish, although I feel they are better suited for normal to dry skin or normal, if you’re oily these might be too rich for you.
Cover FX Power Play Concealer * is new, full review soon, this really impressed me for a full coverage concealer, it glides onto the skin without caking – if you found the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away too thick but still wanted something full coverage, I’d recommend you check out the Cover FX option.
Hourglass Veil Translucent Loose Powder * is one of the new launches this year, I love this for it’s truly translucent finish (no white cast) and sheer natural matte finish.
Armani Neo-Nude Fusion Powder is the best all over setting pressed glow powder, doesn’t make me too shiny, just adds the perfect amount of even coverage and glow, if you’re oily you should probably opt for an all matte option though. Review here.
La Mer Sheer Pressed Powder is one I have gone through several of Light and Medium, it’s the best sheer natural pressed matte powder I’ve tried, although I will say I think MAC Next to Nothing Pressed is a very close dupe that’s cheaper (but they don’t carry MAC at Sephora).
Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray is my go-to setting spray to set makeup and help make it last longer. It’s available in a number of size options including a mini if you want to try one before splurging on the full size.
Eye Makeup:
Charlotte Tilbury Stars in Your Eyes Eyeshadow Palette is the prettiest large eyeshadow palette I think I’ve tried of the season, it rivals NARS Singapore (which is sold out everywhere as it was limited-edition), versatile for a wide range of looks – reviewed here. Swatches of the palette in this post here.
Urban Decay Naked2, Naked3 or Naked Cherry are great options if you’re new to shadow and don’t know where to start. Naked2 has the neutral taupes and browns, Naked3 runs more pink but still neutral, Naked Cherry * is trendy but still wearable. I reviewed Naked Cherry in this post here. There is also this pretty awesome Naked Cherry Vault in a limited-edition set available now too.
Tom Ford Eye Color Quad in Honeymoon is probably my favorite warm neutral, it goes with anything and everything and brightens the face with any cheek color. Nude Dip comes in close second for neutrals.
Pat McGrath anything wins unless you’re not a glitter fan in which case I still think her MTHRSHP Subliminal Platinum Bronze Palette is amazing (review here). I’ll have a review of her Opulence collection posted tomorrow so stay tuned!
Laura Mercier Caviar Eye Sticks are my most worn shadow sticks, I don’t have oily lids so they last all day for me and don’t crease. Rosegold is my holy grail go-to shade I wear the most, followed by Copper.
Natasha Denona makes amazing eyeshadows, the pigment, intensity and complexity of her palettes are really truly beautiful. It’s hard for me to pick one but I think her Camel or 5-Pan in Color Option #2 are great ones.
Brows and Lashes:
Anastasia Brow Wiz * in Medium Brown has been a go-to until I discovered Dior and Hourglass, since getting highlights I’ve felt the need to change my brow color to match a bit more, Taupe and Caramel have been working great for me.
Diorshow Brow Styler in Univeral Brown is still my holy grail, it still works even with highlights!
Tom Ford Lip Colors are amazing in coverage and color selection. I love shades like Sugar Glider, Bad Lieutenant, Indian Rose, Pink Dusk (swatched here) or any of the Boys and Girls for minis (current year’s swatched here).
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk is my universal lipliner for days I feel like adding it. Most of the time I skip it, but this color seems to go with all the neutrals I own.
That wraps up my top makeup picks and recommendations for things you can find during the Sephora Beauty Insider Event! Hope this helps if you’re looking for ideas. It’s always nice to have these events each year to help save on new things or to stock up on favorites. I’ll have a haul post soon and will also have another giveaway when I post the haul.
Dates, codes and details, online and in store at Sephora:
Rouge get 20% Off 11/2-11/5 with code: ROUGEBONUS
VIB get 20% off 11/9-11/12 with code: VIBBONUS
Insiders/ Non-BI members get 15% off 11/16-11/19 with code: BIBONUS
Let me know if you hauled anything yet! Or any fun beauty items recently if you’re not shopping the Sephora Beauty Insider Event. Always love hearing about what you end up buying!
Press samples indicated with a * next to the product listings.
The Sephora Holiday Beauty Insider Event starts today for Rouge Members! Sephora Beauty Insider members of different tiers will be able to shop the event on different weekends throughout the next few weeks. If you’re a Rouge Member you will have two weekends to shop. The event dates, details and discount codes per tier below (available both online and in store):
Rouge get 20% Off 10/26-10/29 and 11/2-11/5 with code: ROUGEBONUS
VIB get 20% off 11/9-11/12 with code: VIBBonus
Insiders/ Non-BI members get 15% off 11/16-11/19 with code: BIBONUS
There are some restrictions, the fine print for ROUGE, “20% offer valid for Rouge members on merchandise purchases made from 10/26/18 through 10/29/18 at 11:59pm PT and from 11/2/18 through 11/5/18 at 11:59pm PT in Sephora U.S. stores, Sephora Canada stores, Sephora inside JCPenney stores, and online. Offer not valid on jcp.com. On Friday, 10/26/18 in stores only, Rouge client and one guest of Rouge who is a member of the Beauty Insider program and is present at the time of redemption will be eligible for 20% off all merchandise purchases, along with a sample set free with any merchandise purchase. Sample set offer valid only in Sephora U.S. and Canada stores and Sephora inside JCPenney stores; assortment may vary. Limit of one sample set per Rouge client and one per guest and provided on a first-come basis. Quantities are limited. Not valid on purchases of customizable sets online, through Sephora’s Customer Service. Not valid on Google products. Clients are limited to the purchase of one Dyson item, three Drunk Elephant items, and three Tatcha items per SKU per transaction. Not valid on previous purchases, purchases of gift cards or eGift cards, FLASH, PLAY! by Sephora, gift wrapping, packaging, taxes, or shipping & handling charges. Return of discounted merchandise will be for the price actually paid. Sephora is not responsible for damaged, lost, or stolen promotional barcodes. Promotions have no cash value and may not be altered, sold, or transferred. Rouge status must be attained prior to redemption. No minimum purchase required. Due to heavy demand, Sephora FLASH delivery times cannot be guaranteed for this promotion. Not valid on orders shipping outside the U.S. or Canada. Cannot be used in conjunction with other promotion codes or Rouge Reward. Sephora and JCPenney employees are not eligible for these offers. Offers are subject to change, alteration, or termination by Sephora at its sole discretion at any time.”
I’ve split my recommendations into two posts. The first one today focuses on skincare, hair care and body favorites. So many readers have asked for more hair and skin recommendations over makeup, but that roundup is coming soon! For my makeup gurus I’m working on getting swatches of new NARS, a concealer roundup, Pat McGrath launches, Marc Jacobs Holiday and some Louboutin items up for you ASAP!
As a beauty blogger I put a lot of products to the extensive test, both purchased items and press samples. Skin care is always tricky for me because of the time it takes to see results along with the expectations I have with what “visible results” are. Other things such as seasonal changes, diet, aging, stress, hormones, that time of the month etc. all play a big factor as well. When it comes to testing skin care I recommend trying minis if you’re unsure. Sets are always great to try things first if you’re unsure about recommendations, reviews or ingredients. The one thing I appreciate most about the Sephora site is that they have more ingredients listed for product compared to any other retailer I shop at.
Skincare Face Cleansers
I love having testing different cleansers! Out of all the skincare categories I think I like cleansers and masks the most. My favorites:
Kate Somerville Eradikate Cleanser – If I had to use one face cleanser for the rest of my life, this would be the ONE. It has sulfur which helps with texture issues, remove impurities and keep pores clear. She has different formulas developed for different skin types and needs. I’ve tried every single one and alternate depending on how my skin feels. Her Kate Somerville Exfolikate Cleanser is also excellent.
Farmacy Clean Bee Ultra Gentle Facial Cleanser is a great option for those who want a green option. I’d recommend it for normal to oily skin. If you have dry skin, it might be too stripping in which case I’d suggest anything from First Aid Beauty like the classic Face Cleanser.
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm * is great for those of us who need to double cleanse or remove makeup first but don’t want liquid oil running all over your arms, face and sink. This is my go-to makeup remover for the face and I think it’s better than the Clinique one which is still pretty darn good.
I feel like exfoliation is key to having clear skin, but face scrubs are so personal. What one’s skin can tolerate truly depends on what other items are being used in a routine. If you’re using acids, peels, Vitamin C or retinols on a regular basis your skin sensitivity will be increased significantly and therefore you might not be able to use certain products. For me I keep acids and peels to a minimum (although I do want to try more). I don’t use Vitamin C on a regular basis.
Fresh Sugar Face Polish is my favorite because it’s hydrating and also melts/dissolves into my face.
Kate Somerville Exfolikate is a classic with lactic acid and fruit enzymes to exfoliate the skin, it will tingle, so if you have ultra sensitive skin try the Gentle Version instead.
Jack Black Face Buff is Andrew’s favorite. He’s tried all of mine and several other men’s brands but says this is hands down the best and insists it’s better than any of mine.
Tatcha Rice Enzyme Powders aren’t really exfoliator scrubs, but I use them as a cleanser/exfoliator. If you have ultra sensitive skin I think these are great alternatives to face scrubs.
Skincare Moisturizers & Oils
Eve Lom White Brightening Cream is one of the most gentle face moisturizers I’ve tried with ingredients to combat dullness and pigment issues. I haven’t noticed that my sun spots have faded but it does brighten subtly, lift and tone. It calms the skin and makes it smooth. This is my fourth jar!
Kate Somerville Exfolikate Glow Moisturizer is an interesting concept because it has exfoliating ingredients, but doesn’t make you peel like the name implies. It has both glycolic and lactic acids that help with uneven skin texture. It hydrates nicely and adds the perfect amount of moisture.
La Mer Moisturizing Soft Lotion and Moisturizing Matte Lotion are Andrew’s favorites. He liked the Soft Lotion when we were in San Diego and for the cooler months here in Florida. For most of the hot seasons he prefers the Matte Version for a lightweight finish.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream is one of two Drunk Elephant products I’ve tried and like. It’s suitable for any skin type and I like that it feels nice on the skin – it has the perfect texture and amount of moisture.
Eve Lom Radiance Oil is another one I just started using at night. I had finished my Kiehl’s and L’Occitane favorites and decided to try a few new ones. This one is really hydrating and lasts through the night. I think it’s going to be perfect for winter months ahead as we’re going into the dry season.
Skincare Extras: Masks, Mists, Treatments
Fresh Mask For Miles Set * has four of my favorite Fresh items, Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask, Lotus Youth Preserve Rescue Mask, Sugar Face Polish and Rose Face Mask. I think this one makes the perfect gift for anyone, especially the hard to shop for!
Fresh Rose Floral Toner is one I actually use more as a face mist, it’s alcohol-free and is a nice soothing face mist. I like to apply this before workouts.
Glamglow Supermud is my holy grail clarifying mask, it sucks out impurities, excess oil, unclogs pores.
Drunk Elephant Sukari Baby Facial is a favorite of mine and Andrew’s. We’re going to stock up on this one during the event. It’s a great resurfacing product that really does work over several uses and leaves skin feeling super soft.
Ouai Scalp and Body Scrub is scented in their rose scent. I haven’t used it on the hair, it was just so amazing as a body scrub I kept using it like that until it was all gone. I felt like couldn’t live without it so I bought another jar before the sale started.
REN Atlantic Kelp and Magnesium Salt Scrub is supposed to be an anti-fatigue body scrub. I bought this as I had really sore muscles after starting to lift weights. This made for a nice soak and hydrated the skin without leaving a greasy film.
Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen with SPF 50 is my holy grail of body sunscreens. It’s easy to reapply, isn’t greasy, doesn’t smell like sunscreen and it’s transparent (no white cast). We’ve also found it effective in intense Florida sunshine.
Kopari Coconut Deodorant * is my go-to deodorant right now, it’s natural, lightweight, applies smoothly and keeps odor away (also available as a mini in this Beauty Besties Set).
Kopari Coconut Melt is the best overnight body treatment I use for extra dry skin.
Jo Malone Colognes are something I never see go on sale, so the event is a great time to save. My two favorites are Wood Sage and Sea Salt and Basil and Neroli. The layering combinations are endless and fun to play around with.
Hair Care Favorites
Everything about my hair care routine is going to change now that I just got highlights. So many of you have given me amazing color-safe shampoo recommendations. Since they recommend not washing your hair for 72 hours after the process I’ve been ok without any options, but I’m going to check them out this weekend. In the meantime items I swear by:
Aquis Lisse Luxe Long Hair Towel is something I discovered this year and really love it! I suddenly found it kept disappearing on me. Andrew did not know it was a hair towel, found it in the clean laundry pile, liked the texture and absorbent quality so much he decided to steal it and use it for during and post-work out sweat. I’ve since ordered a few more in the regular length and Waffle Texture to try and keep one as my own.
Aquis Prime Starter Kit * this is something I just started testing, it’s a four piece set with products and a turban to prevent hair breakage. I’ll have a more detailed review soon, but think it’s excellent.
Moroccanoil Treatment * is a classic multi-tasker, I use it pre-heat and as a finishing product. I also love the way it smells! Been purchasing this for years but one shown was gifted.
IGK Dry Shampoos are among my favorite. They had a limited-edition trio of minis online and I bought a few as I like the smaller size to carry in my totes. Jet Lag is my favorite for my hair, but all three are amazing. No white residue on any of the formulas.
Ouai Hair Oil another favorite for the hair, it’s a nice lightweight oil. Scent is floral and strong and might not be everyone’s cup of tea but I love how it performs.
Lip Treatments
Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask is my favorite lip treatment I think is going to work for any skin type. They have clear and tinted versions (swatches of Champagne, Lavender, Maple and Smashed here)
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Advance Zodiac * is a fun way to gift someone a lip balm that’s a little more personalized if it matches their zodiac sign! These are listed as online only. I received a few in the mail and think they’re so fun. I’ve tried the regular non-limited edition packaging one and think it’s better than the regular lip treatment, although the tinted ones are super fun too.
Dior Addict Lip Glow is something I actually consider more makeup than skincare, but I know some of you consider it skincare! It’s the best color-transforming balm I’ve tried. Perfect for an easy look and nice to reapply. It’s tough to pick just one shade, my favorite is Coral.
To keep on with my tradition with my Sephora Beauty Insider Event roundups, I’m doing another giveaway! I’m giving away one $250 eGift Card to Sephora. Open internationally, 18 years and older. Giveaway is going to run through November 1st. For a chance to win enter by using the steps in the widget below. I’ll select one person via the widget within 48 hours after giveaway ends. Not sponsored or affiliated.
