Sephora VIB Holiday Sale Recommendations

Hi all! Here is my updated list of Sephora favorites as of October 2020.

Do note that these are affiliate links and I do make a small commission. I appreciate your support as always as writing these posts are extremely time consuming. Also, if it has an asterisk, that means the product was discovered in PR, meaning it was gifted by the brand, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

The Sale Details:

The event is online and in stores, with code HOLIDAYFUN, which saves you a different amount depending on your status at Sephora:

Rouge - October 30-November 9 - 20% discount

VIB - November 3-November 9 - 15% discount

Insiders - November 5-November 9 - 10% discount

My thoughts on the sale (for US shoppers):

It’s worth shopping if you’re Rouge, because 20% off is a pretty good discount, especially when you get the convenience of shopping so many brands at one place. If not Rouge, 15% and 10% are not very good discounts, and I would personally skip, or focus only on the value sets that Sephora is known for, where you’re already getting a great value, or Sephora exclusive products/brands. Individual brands and other beauty retailers will occasionally have much better sales at 20-25%+, so keep that in mind. There’s always another sale!

Skincare

Cleansers:

Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Smoothing Enzyme Cleansing Balm* - if you’re looking for a new cleansing balm, I have REALLY been enjoying this one. A lot of people said this feels a little too hard to rinse off, but I don’t find that at all. I think the key is making sure you don’t use too much. A little goes a long way. It smells amazing, but not too strong, and leaves your skin so soft, but without a film.

Youth to the People Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser - a gel cleanser that is amazing at removing makeup, but is also gentle and hydrating. I’ve probably gone through five of these bottles and it’s a staple. I do find this is better for normal to oily skins, as it may be too stripping for dry skin.

First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser - great for sensitive skin, as it is quite gentle, and has no fragrance or other potentially irritating ingredients. No frills at a great price point.

Laneige Cream Skin Milk Oil Cleanser* - this is a really unique cleanser that removes nearly all makeup with ease. It’s great as a first and second cleanse, and will leave your skin hydrated and balanced. Many use this as their morning cleanse. This entire Laneige line is incredible!

Shani Darden Cleansing Serum* - this is described as a serum cleanser, but feels like a thick jelly. A little goes a really long way! This demolishes makeup, and makes you skin feel so clean but not stripped. It’s great if you’re someone who wants a one and done cleanser, and loves that gel/jelly texture. I expected nothing else but magic from this queen!

Exfoliants:

Dr. Dennis Gross Peel Pads - These are one of my favorite chemical exfoliants. They have extra strength, universal daily, and gentle versions. I use extra strength 1x a week for an extra boost, but depending on your skin type, the other versions are great too. The gentle version is great for pregnancy (and safe!).

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads - these contain a blend of AHA’s— lactic and glycolic acid, and are alcohol free, making them gentle, but still really effective for all skin types. These come as presoaked pads making them super convenient, and they even sell in a mini size that I love to travel with. Their 10% AHA Resurfacing Liquid is also fantastic. These are great for people newer to chemical exfoliation, or those with dry or sensitive skin.

Fresh Beauty Sugar Strawberry Exfoliating Face Wash* - I put this in the exfoliation category instead of cleanser, because its something I only use 1-2x a week. It’s a physical scrub, but really gentle and hydrating. Also smells amazing, and comes in a mini if you just want to try it!

Toners:

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Wild Oat Toner* - an oatmeal powered hydrating toner that relieves and soothes the skin. Amazing for people with sensitive or inflamed skin. SUCH a good price point! This has easily become my favorite toner.

Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer - An ultra hydrating toner, that I pat into my skin like an essence. It’s so hydrating that with a few layers, I can often skip moisturizer at the end of my routine (hence moisturizer in the name). In comparing it to the FAB one above, this one is more moisturizing, and may not be suitable for more oily skin types, whereas the FAB is good for everyone.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA+BHA Toner* - This has been my go-to for cleansing my skin in the morning. I love the mixture of really gentle but also effective acids. I also find it to be quite hydrating. It does have a fairly strong watermelon scent, so skip if that’s not your thing.

Indie Lee CoQ-10 Toner - a hydrating toner with antioxidants and tons of hydrating ingredients. Smells amazing! This comes in a spray format which I find a bit too harsh for my face, so I spray into my hand and pat into the skin.

Essences:

Shani Darden Sake Toning Essence* - a toner and essence in one— sake helps to brighten, while sebocytine helps refine the look of pores. This is more balancing, so better for those with combo to oily skin, and great for prepping the skin for other serums/treatments. It has great packaging and is one of the more affordable options at $52/4oz.

Primera Miracle Seed Essence* - this is sooo hydrating. It lasts forever. It just gives your skin the most plump, dewy, glow. If I had to pick a favorite of these four, it’s this one. It comes with cotton rounds, but just dump into your hand and pat into your skin!

Fresh Black Tea Kombucha Facial Treatment Essence* - hydrating and loaded with antioxidants, I apply this so all my next steps sink into my skin and work better. Love their mini plastic size for travel!

Amorepacific Vintage Single Extract Essence* - this one is the OG essence, that is also a major splurge. I am pointing it out here because I love it, and if it’s been on your wishlist, definitely grab it on sale. It’s hydrating, brightening, plumping. A cult classic for a reason, but definitely not a necessity.

Mists:

Youth to the People Adaptogen Mist* - soothing, hydrating, and easily one of my most reached for mists. It also helps eliminate redness. My only qualm is that the lettering of YTTP sometimes comes off and you end up with black bits on your hand.

Laneige Cream Skin Mist* - this is the exact same thing as the Cream Skin Toner + Moisturizer but in mist form. I love. this. entire. line. It is absolutely the most hydrating, soothing line. It’s great for all skin types, but especially those that are sensitive as it’s fragrance free.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Ultra-Fine Mist - this is my favorite mist for post makeup and refreshing throughout the day, whereas I prefer the other two mentioned here as spritzes between skincare steps. It contains a blend of 84-percent watermelon, hyaluronic acid, and hibiscus to refresh skin and take that powdery look out of makeup.

Serums/Treatments:

Shani Darden Retinol Reform - this combines 2.2% encapsulated retinol, with 2% lactic acid and apple fruit extract, with is an antioxidant. This is a great exfoliating/retinoid treatment at one, and I always recommend it to people who want to simplify their routine— vs having to remember to alternate chemical exfoliation and retinoids. I reach for this when my skin is feeling more sensitive and I want something less aggressive than my Rx retinoid. If your skin is very sensitive, her texture reform serum is a bit gentler.

Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Acid Serum* - this contains 5 different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid to hydrate various layers of the skin, along with three types of plum. A very elegant formula that melts into the skin, and the most subtle scented of any of the GR products. One of Glow Recipe’s best products for sure.

Primera Black Seed Cold Brew Serum - I included this serum recently on my list of favorite hydrating serums, and it has one of the most elegant textures, it melts into the skin. It has soothing and calming properties from the madecassoside, which is extracted from cica, and also has antioxidant properties from the black seed cold brew.

Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum - one of the most elegant but affordable hyaluronic acid serums on the market. HA is a staple in every routine for hydration. I prefer ones that have additional beneficial ingredients personally, but this is nice if you’re on a tight budget.

First Aid Beauty Retinol Serum 0.25% - I trust FAB with my life, and this is a great retinol option for basically anyone, but especially those with sensitive skin, or those new to retinol.

Belif Youth Creator Age Knockdown Bomb - an anti-aging serum that provides bouncy, hydrated, glowing skin that looks far more youthful. I actually love this even more in my morning routine, because of how plump it makes my skin. It wears so well under makeup too!

Eye Creams:

Belif Moisturizing Eye Bomb - one of my favorite day time eye creams. It’s simply incredibly hydrating and layers well under makeup, but don’t expect much else from it.

First Aid Beauty Retinol Eye Cream* - an extremely lightweight eye cream, that is hydrating but also has superstar retinol to prevent fine lines. I prefer this packaging to pots!

Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic + Retinol Eye Cream - another great retinol eye cream option, that also has ferulic acid which is fabulous in combo with retinol at preventing fine lines around the eyes. A favorite among many estheticians.

Youth to the People Dream Eye Cream* - She is THICK. If you’re someone who enjoys a really nice and heavy eye cream, this is for you. This contains vitamin c to brighten, and hyaluronic acid and ceramides to hydrate and protect the skin area. It’s beautiful! Easily my favorite night eye cream.

Moisturizers:

Shani Darden Weightless Oil-Free Moisturizer* - the perfect day-time summer moisturizer for normal to oily skin. It feels like a gel or water cream. I love the pump packaging too! It includes HA to hydrate, hydrolyzed collagen to plump, and red algae extract; a powerful antioxidant.

Youth to the People Superfood Air-Whip Moisturizer - one of my other favorite daytime moisturizers of all time, especially in the summer. It’s incredibly hydrating, and melts into the skin. A must if you’re oily.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Pink Juice Oil-Free Moisturizer - this is the perfect hybrid between a hydrating serum and moisturizer. It’s one of my favorites during the hotter months, or I wear it as a hydrating layer under a moisturizer in the winter. It’s perfect for those with oilier skin.

Youth to The People Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream* - Lightweight, but still incredibly nourishing. I also love how calming and soothing this; I wake up with less redness. All skin types would love this.

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream - A must if you are dry, sensitive, or have an inflammatory skin condition like rosacea. It’s one of my go-to’s when my skin is angry or dry! Works for all skin types.

BeautyBio Zen Bubble Gel Cream - this has because an absolute favorite moisturizer. If you love a gel cream that is insanely hydrating and moisturizing (moreso than most gel-creams), but also has pump packaging.

Face/Lip SPF:

Supergoop Zincsreen* - my favorite day time SPF by Supergoop!; it’s 100% mineral, and has a light pink tint to it, which gives you a gorgeous glow.

Supergoop 100% Mineral Matte Screen - great as a makeup primer, but I use it to apply SPF over my makeup. It has a light tint, but is virtually clear, making it great for this purpose. Also totally mineral.

Supergoop Invincible Setting Powder - A fantastic setting powder that comes in a few shades for extra SPF protection, but also great for reapplying SPF over makeup.

Supergoop Setting Mist - this is a nice option for reapplication, but many people love or hate this. It does have a fairly strong rosemary/peppermint scent that I enjoy, but it’s not for everyone.

Dr. Dennis Gross Sheer Mineral Sun Spray - another mineral SPF spray that is great for reapplication, and is a bit more heavy duty than the Supergoop! setting mist.

My fav Supergoop Shine On Lip Screen SPF 50 is no longer sold at Sephora, but worth checking out!

Face Oils:

Indie Lee Squalane Oil - great for all skin types, but is known for sinking in immediately and being a favorite for more combo/oily types. Because it only has one ingredient, this is also my pick for sensitive skin. So affordable too!

Youth to the People Superberry Oil - my favorite pick for oily skin. It is lightweight, loaded with antioxidants, and sinks into the skin in no time. I love this under makeup, or for any time I’m looking a little dull.

Masks:

Youth to the People Yerba Mate Resurfacing + Exfoliating Energy Facial*- this uses enzymes and very fine particles to give you a chemical and physical exfoliation in only TWO MINUTES, for softer, smoother, brighter skin. Easily one of my favorite launches of theirs.

Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask* - an extremely moisturizing, calming, and soothing overnight mask. This was a staple for me this winter. Easily my favorite sleeping mask, along with the YTTP one.

Youth to the People Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask*- a deeply hydrating, plumping and brightening sleeping mask loaded with antioxidants. I either use this as my night time moisturizer or if really dry, apply it over my night time moisturizer. It does more than hydrate though, and really brightens the skin, so it’s nice if you can’t be bothered and just want to apply this after cleansing, and pass out.

Lip Balms/Masks/Scrubs:

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Lip Therapy* - this is great for those with sensitive lips as it’s beeswax and lanolin free. It contains colloidal oatmeal to soothe, shea butter to moisturize and glycerin, to pull in water to hydrate. At $12, a no brainer.

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm - the balm version of my favorite sleeping mask, feels the same but easier to apply on the go! Grapefruit, Gummy Bear, Peach and Pear are my favorites.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask - I swear by this lip mask, and wear it every night. It stays on my lips all night and comes in tons of fun flavors. Grapefruit, Mint Chocolate and Gummy bear are my favorite flavors, but I need to try Lemon Sorbet!

Kopari Coconut Lip Scrubby - a super hydrating lip scrub that comes in a little squeeze tube, making it not only effective but mess free. And only $16!

Self Tanners (Face + Body):

In full disclosure, I still really love these two products sold at Sephora, but they just no longer work for my lifestyle. I used to use the Isle of Paradise (IOP) Self Tanning Drops and the Tan Luxe Hydrating Self Tan Mousse but have since moved onto these two products:

For face: Ulta Bronze Glow Self Tanning Glow by Morning Gradual Tan Drops - these are $10.99!!! The do not contain coconut oil like the IOP and Tan Luxe, but do contain some fragrance. The fragrance is far less offensive. The texture is like a gel, that you can apply right to your skin (my preferred method) or mix with a serum or moisturizer. Amazing!! Never going back.

For body: Luna Bronze Total Eclipse Express Tanning Mousse - I switched to this because I wanted something that I didn’t have to wear overnight. You apply this with a mitt, and let it sit for 1-3 hours, then rinse. It’s not super sticky or stinky, and I don’t have to wear it overnight! It also has a color guide which is great if you’re a newbie. This has more of an olive undertone that looks quite natural. Don’t be scared by the “dark” title, because one layer gives me a really natural tan. Two layers makes me look more dark, like I just came back from vacation.

Loving Tan Self Tan Applicator Mitt - best one I have tried, hands down!

Bath + Body

Body Wash & Shower Gel:

The Ouai Body Cleanser* - easily one of my favorite body wash’s at Sephora. It smells amazing, but not so strong that it meshes poorly with my fragrance. I find it to be quite hydrating too.

Body Scrub:

Kopari Coconut Crush Scrub - extremely effective at physical exfoliation and hydrating with coconut oil. It’s that perfect balance of being exfoliating enough, but not too exfoliating, and being hydrating, but not oily. It smells amazing and lasts a long time. One of the few body scrubs I have repurchased time and time again.

First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA* - this is a gentle chemical and physical body exfoliating scrub. It’s amazing for those red bumps on the back of your arms (KP), or basically anywhere! It’s affordable, and the tube is huge. The scrub itself is quite fine, which I love. Also, another product I have actually used multiple tubes of.

Body Lotion/Cremes:

Ouai Body Creme* - one of the most unique body creams I’ve tried (and I am a body oil girl through and through)— it’s incredibly hydrating, sinks in immediately, and has a gorgeous scent. It’s not so overpowering that you can’t wear fragrance over it. It makes my skin baby soft.

REN Smart Renewal Body Serum - this contains AHA’s to naturally exfoliate the skin, so it’s pretty unique in that. It’s scent is quite orange, and not my favorite, but I put up with it because I love the soft, smooth skin it gives me. It’s a perfect companion to the First Aid Beauty KP Body Scrub! It’s called a serum, but don’t be confused— it’s definitely a cream!

Body SPF:

Supergoop PLAY! SPF 50 - I love how glowy and hydrated this makes my skin. It’s great for throwing on before walks, or when I know my Crossfit workout involves being outside!

Supergoop Body Oil Sunscreen SPF 50 - I love this for when I am going to be at the pool— it keeps my skin hydrated from the chlorine, and makes me look nice and glowing, while staying protected.

Supergoop Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50 - an easy lotion formula that comes in a giant jug for the whole fam.

Hair

Shampoo & Conditioner:

Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-Exfoliating Shampoo - when my scalp has a ton of product buildup (ie: dry shampoo), or is feeling itchy or flakey, this calms and soothes my scalp, removing buildup and flakes. My husband is obsessed with it too. I’ve gone through 6+ tubs over the past two years.

Briogeo Banana + Coconut Superfoods Shampoo + Conditioner Pack* - this smells like a vacation, and is incredibly cleansing, while not being stripping and yet also incredibly hydrating. You can order them separately, but you save with the duo. I muchhhhh prefer the conditioner to the shampoo, which just didn’t do anything revolutionary for my hair.

Hair Masks:

Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Deep Conditioning Mask - this is the most hydrating hair mask I’ve ever used, and I’ve gone through probably six tubs of it (a couple were gifted). I can always rely on it to hydrate my curls and make them bouncier than ever post-shower, but I know all of my straight hair friends love it just as much! I might also grab the limited edition honey version that comes in the cute bear packaging.

Avocado + Kiwi Mega Moisture Superfoods Hair Mask - I find this mask to be much thicker and more nourishing than the deep conditioning mask mentioned above. I think if you’re someone who has really dry hair, you’re going to love this. I really enjoyed this, but still find myself to prefer the mask above, because it feels more hydrating, like it holds the water in my strands, vs. adding oil to my strands if that makes sense.

Hair Gel:

Ouai Curl Jelly - I really like this hair gel for a one and done hair look, especially on vacation. It has a deceivingly good hold, so you don’t need that much. Do I get the most divine ringlets? No, but it gives me great curls/waves, and paired with a beach/texture spray, I love the look.

Curl Cream:

Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream - I’ve tried EVERY curl cream on the market, and always come back to this one. All of my other favorites are sold at Target or Ulta. This one is the best in the game, giving frizz free, soft curls that hold my curl pattern all week. It takes me over a year to get through a bottle, as I mix it with my gel. I also actually love the look of this cream in my hair, completely on it’s own with no other product, although I don’t get QUITE as much volume as combining with gel, my curls still look flawless. I also love that this comes in a mini size for traveling.

Beach/Texture Sprays:

Ouai Volume Spray - I spray this right into my roots, and when I diffuse my hair I get extra lift and volume. One of my favorite Ouai products of all time, and washing my hair 1x a week, it took me exactly 2 years to go through it!

IGK Beach Club Texture Spray - I’ve tried a lot of beach/wave sprays in my day, and this one adds texture but no sticky grittiness. I love that they sell minis of it, because I bring them on vacation. It also smells amazing!

Playa New Day Mist 3-in-1 Styler Refresh* - newest in my arsenal, this has become one of my favorite hair mists for redefining curls, adding definition, and a touch of hold. It also smells like a hair perfume, with their signature beach/musk scent with hints of honey and neroli.

Dry Shampoo:

Ouai Super Dry Shampoo* - this product is a redo of their original dry shampoo (which I was majorly not a fan of). They crushed it with this iteration. It is talc and powder free, but instead has rice starch and volcanic minerals, making it pretty unique in the market. It works, it gives crazyyyy volume, and smells amazing— like their Melrose Place fragrance. I used to love their dry shampoo mousse, but this outshines that one.

Bumble & Bumble Pret-A-Powder - I’ve been using this for like eight years now? It’s great at soaking up oil at the root, and adding volume. It’s also a great option if you prefer non-aerosol. You just twist the top, and dump it out like baby powder LOL so its best used the night before to make sure it all gets worked into the hair. The .5oz mini for $13 lasts me a good while, and is so tiny that it’s great to travel with!

Hair Oil:

Playa Ritual Hair Oil* - Light enough that I think all hair types will like this. It has their amazing signature scent of beach/musk and does a great job of holding in hydration, making my curls bounce-y and soft. Lots of my straight haired friends love it too! Dying to try Gisou, Dae, and BREAD’s hair oils!

Hair Tools:

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer - this is totally and 100% and investment. I don’t use any other hair tools (other than a $3 wide tooth comb), so investing in a good diffuser is really important to me. My husband actually bought this for me as a gift three years ago, and it’s still in perfect working condition. It comes with a magnetic attachable diffuser, and the straight hair attachments (which my husband uses). It has changed both of our lives— it’s quiet, dries hair quicker and with less damage. My curls are noticeably healthier and more defined. I’m not sure if its part of the Sephora sale (I think some years they withhold it from the sale), but if it is— it’s worth the grab!

Devacurl Devatowel - An anti-frizz microfiber towel is an absolute must for drying curly hair. I’ve been using this thing for a decade at least. They recently redid it maybe 4 years ago?? It’s bigger and even softer! Lasts forever too if you take good care of it.

Aquis Hair Turban - I saw everyone with straight hair loving this, and I was really jealous at first that it didn’t seem like it would work for curly hair. But then I saw a few people style their curly hair, then “plop” with this. I apply all my products, wear the towel for about 20 minutes, air dry for another hour, and then diffuse with my Dyson. This allows you to keep your soaking wet hair off your back, which is crucial come winter.

Makeup

Face:

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer* - I’ve been a fan of the oil-free version forever, but since they sent me the new launch of the regular version, this is my go-to base when I want to just even my skin tone, and look a little more flawless. The oil-free if oily is great, and the illuminating version is great if you’re more dry and want to look a little glow-y, but I honestly can wear all three versions, and just change up my primer/how I set my face to accommodate that specific version! If you prefer something with a bit more coverage, I do really love their Flawless Fusion Ultra-Longwear Foundation*. It is the same natural looking wear of the tinted moisturizer, but provides more coverage. I wear 2N1 in all Laura Mercier base products.

Laura Mercier Primers - I owned the hydrating and illuminating versions for years, and they’re still some of my favorite primers. The hydrating just provides a super hydrating base for your makeup; great if you’re dry. The illuminating version gives a subtle pearly sheen (while also still being hydrating), that looks gorgeous under your base.

First Aid Beauty Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer - a hydrating, illuminating primer that I’ve been using for years. It can also double as your moisturizer, allowing you to eliminate steps! Also sold in a mini size.

First Aid Beauty Avocado Bendy Concealer - I actually originally won the entire range when it launched in a giveaway, and I get so many compliments on my skin when I wear this. No one even believes I’m wearing concealer. It truly moves with your skin, and is fully camouflaged. This concealer is my favorite for under the eyes but is great for all over too. I wear shade 2. They just expanded their shade range too, but it is still not deep enough.

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Concealer - I will start by saying I hate this packaging; it’s hard to open and close, and the sponge applicator is gross (I remove it). However, it is also another concealer that is a perfect match for me, and it’s really hydrating and moves with your skin. I prefer to wear this over blemishes/redness vs under the eyes. I wear shade 3.

Marc Jacobs Finish Line Perfecting Coconut Setting Powder - one of my favorite loose setting powders. The net in the packaging make this mess-free. It’s extremely fine milled and I reach for it all the time.

Cheek:

Blush:

Fenty Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush - sheer, but buildable and ohhhh so easy to blend. Rose Latte is a bronzed nude, and gives you that perfect bronzer and blush in one look. I also love Daiquiri Dip for a coral pop of color. These are far more buildable and sheer than some other options (like Rare beauty), so great for cream blush beginners.

Patrick Ta Major Beauty Headlines - Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush - one of the most unique products launched this year— it comes with a powder base, and a creme blush that you apply on top of the powder. They wear incredibly well together, and just look natural and glowy. I love She’s So LA— a bronzed nude (I have a problem), and Do We Know Her?— a peachy coral.

Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush - I got the shade Love, which is a gorgeous terracotta shade. This is the matte formula, which was so easy to blend and not ever patchy. Do note, that a little goes a really long way, and this formula may be tough to work with for newbies. Also- this set contains Joy, which is the peachy glowy color I also wanted but was OOS when I went in stores!

Bronzer:

Fenty Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Bronzer - living for a cream bronzer these days, and Fenty has an amazing shade range. I wear shade 02 - Butta Bisquit for fair to light skin tones. It’s a perfect neutral bronze, and blends like a dream.

Contour:

Tom Ford Shade and Illuminate - this duo contains a contour and highlighter. (I love them both), but the star is the contour. I wear Intensity 01, but they have a lighter shade and two darker shades. It’s so creamy and easy to blend, and looks SO natural. If you love the Chanel cream bronzer, but feel its a bit too orange, this is really neutral, leaning cool. AKA perfection. I can contour with this or wear it all over as bronzer.

Highlighter:

Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder Compact* - this is meant to be more of an all over finishing powder that provides a bit of a glow, but I actually love this as a really natural looking highlighter. It actually reminds me of the loose powder glow version, but in a pressed format. I’m personally over the blinding highlighters, and want people to think its just my skin glowing! I use Highlight 01 - golden nude, but there are three other darker shades that would be gorgeous on deeper skin tones!

Tom Ford Shade and Illuminate - this duo contains a contour and highlighter. The highligher imparts an incredibly natural glow— just like wet skin. A look that I love. This duo is pricey, but I get so much use out of both products, it’s worth it (especially on sale)!

Eye:

Eyeshadow:

Natasha Denona Crystal Chroma Top Coats - easily my most worn eye products of all time. I wear the shade Nude religiously, but also own Peach, Bronze, and I am going to get Grey Brown because why not round out my collection?? These aren’t your typical micro-glitter top coats— instead they provide a “dazzling” effect ND calls it, that makes them look wet on the eyes. There’s nothing else out there like it. I also own two of the Duo Chrome Top Coats in Brown Mauve/Purple (a gorgeous bronze to magenta shift), and Lavender/Gold & Silver (light blue/lavender that shifts into gold and silver). I love them all, and no matter what I wear I get no less than five compliments and people asking me what they are. While they are great as top coats, they’re also gorgeous with a swipe on, worn alone, which is actually how I wear them 90% of the time.

Supergoop Shimmershades* - I own all four shades (Sephora sells the three I was gifted, but I purchased the 4th from blue mercury), and besides my ND top coats, these are my second most used eyeshadow product. Instead of a glitter or wet effect, these just provide a gorgeous sheen to the eyes. So easy to swipe on and blend. They also DO. NOT. BUDGE. Which is great for my oily lids, where most cream shadows disappear after an hour. Also, they have SPF!

Tom Ford Eyeshadow Quads - these are SO expensive, and I would never pay full price, but worth it at 20% off. You can be a complete eyeshadow novice and have no problem blending them— they basically blend themselves. My two favorite and most used quads are:

• Cocoa Mirage - matte light beige, matte neutral medium beige, warm copper with shimmer, matte chocolate brown - easily the most boring but most wearable of all TF palettes. Perfect for an every day eye look, or for a bit of a deeper smokey eye for night. It’s neutral so it looks great on everyone!

• Honeymoon - shimmering peach, sand, plum, and dark purple - the most perfect smokey gold and/or purple eye, but also has a touch of cranberry. I always bring on vacation. There’s a reason it’s called honeymoon!

Natasha Denona Glam Palette - Okay, so I have been waiting YEARS for Natasha to come out with a neutral toned palette, and I was hoping it would be one of the smaller, $65 ones. It’s the perfect size to travel with. She answered my prayers and it’s beautiful, the shades are easy to blend. I know a lot of people say this is “cool toned” but it definitely feels more neutral to me. Can’t recommend it enough.

In addition to Natasha Denona, now is also the time to buy the Pat McGrath palettes, if you’ve been holding out— which I think are some of the best quality along with Natasha Denona, (and most pricey) sold at Sephora!

Mascara:

I am not supporting the brand that makes my favorite mascara right now, until they make some changes to be more inclusive. You can probably figure out who it is, but until then— catch me hunting for a new favorite.

Eyeliner:

Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Eye Crayon Eyeliner - I don’t wear eyeliner unless it’s of the bright and fun variety. Good thing these come in basically every color imaginable, and they don’t budge, which is important for my oily eyelids. I own and adore whirl(pool), a matte teal, and mist me?, a matte lilac— and want to grab a few more shades!

Eyebrow:

Benefit Cosmetics Goof Proof Brow Pencil - I still think for the price/quantity, Benefit has the best products. I have been using this eyebrow pencil in shade 3.5 (neutral medium brown) along with Glossier Boy Brow in brown for years, and don’t plan to stop anytime soon. The good thing is they have a thinner pencil, and a million other products depending on your eyebrow preference.

Lip:

Lip Liner:

Marc Jacobs Poutliner Longwear Lip Liner - since I discovered these, I’ve never looked back or forward, or at any other lip liner. I love that I don’t need to sharpen them, and I found my two perfect nude shades. I get endless compliments. Thanks to @katherine.alicias for the rec— she never steers me wrong.

• Nude(ist) 300 - the perfect beige nude

• Cream & Sugar - peachy, pink nude

Lipstick:

Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick - if you’re still into matte liquid lips, this is one of the best formulas on the market, with a million colors, and only $14. I wore 01 Always Red in wedding photos, as its the most perfect classic, neutral red that looks good on everyone. I own like 12 of these but haven’t been into matte lips as much lately.

Patrick Ta Major Headlines Matte Suede Lipstick - She’s Not From Here is the perfect orange red, and has replaced my favorite by another brand that I no longer support. I also have the matching lip liner in the same shade, and it’s amazing!

Lipgloss:

Fenty Gloss Bomb - this formula has ruined me, as it’s the most comfortable, non-sticky but also long-lasting— and her shades are also always universally flattering on everyone.

Lip Oil:

Lilah B. Lovingly Tinted Lip Oil* - incredibly hydrating with a flattering wash of color. Somehow all three shades look great on everyone, but my favorites by far are b. Elegant, a neutral nude, and b. Brilliant, a peachy nude.

Clarins Lip Comfort Oil - another hydrating lip oil that provides a wash of color, but are much more opaque, providing just a tint. My favorites are honey, honey glam, and tangerine.

Fragrance

Two words: TOM FORD. If you get 20% off, now is the time to grab some Tom Ford fragrance. Thankfully you only have to replenish (at least for me) every five years LOL

Now is also a great time to buy fragrance sets if you want to try some things out before making a full size purchase.

Tom Ford Soleil Blanc - this is a warm and sweet gourmand, that has top notes of pistachio and bergamot, and smells creamy and milky with a coconut base of coc de mar. Think, a more luxurious Bobbi Brown Beach— less sunscreen, more coconut and luxury. Picture yourself in Monaco. A summer favorite.

Tom Ford Neroli Portofino - this is fresh, citrusy and will transport you to Italy. It has top notes of Italian Bergamot, Lavender, and Orange Flower, but has a musky amber undertone that dries down to a subtle musk, with neroli. It’s perfection. A summer favorite.

Fresh Cannabis Santal - A masculine blend of rich fruits like kumquat and dark plum mingled with patchouli, magnolia, chocolate, vetiver, and vanilla musk. It’s really unique and it’s not like anything else I own. One of my go-to’s for fall/winter these days!

Maison Louis Marie - their perfume oils are amazing (and clean if that matters to you), and they have a mini set for you to try if you aren’t sure which scent you’re going to like. My favorites are No. 2, No. 4 and No. 9, all fall/winter scents that are woody and musky. I also like that they sell the fragrance in addition to the oil, as well as travel size, and candles!

Candles

NEST Candles are my newest obsessions. I love Mediterranean Fig for summer, and Birchwood Pine, Holiday, and Pumpkin Chai for the fall/winter! They have some sets too that would make great gifts.

Voluspa is so affordable for a luxury candle, and has such great sets if you want to try out a bunch of their scents. My favorite is Gilt Pomander, a warm spicey scent with cardamom and hinoki.

Tools + Brushes

Skincare Tools:

DERMAFLASH Dermapore* - I loved this product so much that I did a sponsored video on it, which I am linking here. I talk about the device and specifically how it’s helped a lot with maskne, but also how to use it. I love it for especially eliminating congestion around my nose, chin, and cheeks. It’s magical! It’s only $99, and with 20% off it’s such a great deal.

DERMAFLASH Luxe - this is DERMAFLASH’s exfoliating tool, and is the closest thing you can get to an at-home dermaplaning. A lot of estheticians are actually using this tool instead of a scalpel. It helps get rid of dead skin cells, any debris on the skin as well as peach fuzz. It’s amazing for pre-events, because makeup goes on so smoothly. This is pricey at $199, so a perfect tool to get during the sale.

Makeup Brushes:

Nars Yachiyo Brush #27 - This is the perfect brush for blush, highlighter, even bronzer. I don’t know how it does it, but it’s impossible to over apply product. I’ve had this brush for TEN years!! And it’s still in perfect condition.

Bare Minerals Supreme Finisher Brush - this is another brush I’ve had since college, and it is still in perfect shape. It is my favorite for bronzer, powders and luminizing powders for all over the face.

Bare Minerals Dual-Finish Blush and Contour Brush - great for precise application of blush, but I much prefer this for applying powder contour. It’s also the perfect shape/size for applying powder under the eyes to set concealer.

IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Wand Ball Powder Brush #8 - one of my favorite powder brushes of all time! So soft and fluffy. IT Cosmetics makes some of the nicest and longest-lasting brushes, in my opinion.

Benefit Cosmetics Eyebrow Brush and Spoolie - my favorite brow brush, that has a brow brush on one side and spoolie on the other.

Eyelash Curler:

Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler - this has won a ton of awards, and I guess I trust the experts. It works well, and has held up really well!

Tweezers:

Tweezerman Slant Tweezers - I am a die hard Tweezerman fan. To me, there is just no other brand that works as well, and if you can get it 20% off, why not.