Sephora Fall Sale 2022 Recommendations

Hi all! Here is my updated list of Sephora favorites as of October 28, 2022.

**Do note that the links below are affiliate, meaning I do make a small commission if you decide to click through and purchase. I appreciate your support as always as writing these posts is 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 SAVINGS which saves you a different amount depending on your status at Sephora:

Rouge -October 28 - November 7 - 20% discount

VIB - November 1 - November 7 - 15% discount

Insiders - November 3 - November 11 - 10% discount

Beauty for All Event:

Last year, Sephora had a beauty for all event from December 3 - 13th, where they gave everyone a one-time use code for 20% off.

The Fall sale this year has moved up to start at the end of October, and keeps creeping up earlier and earlier. I have a feeling that spending will be down again this year given the economy, and they’ll offer the Beauty for All event again. Don’t hold me to it though!! LOL So IMO, if you’re not getting the 20%, I’d personally hold off and see if they do this same offer again..

Skincare

Cleansers:

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser - My newest cleansing obsession, I use this as a first cleanse. You apply on dry skin, work into makeup, then rinse. It feels like a mix between a gel and oil, comes in a tube with flip cap. I love that they have 1.7oz perfect for travel, and a 5oz size. 5oz is only $19.90, making it the most affordable, effective first cleanser I’ve tried besides micellar water. The Ordinary isn’t included in part of sales, but honestly even without the sale, it’s worth grabbing it is so affordable.

Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm* - this is an oldie but a goodie. For the last year, I’ve gotten back into cleansing balms, and I maintain that this is the best sorbet type cleansing balm at Sephora. I also love that they now have a fragrance free version, and cute sets with limited edition scents. New scents this year! I bought this in 2021 and loved it. Dr. Slack’s wife was so scared of using a cleansing balm for fear of it breaking her out, and this is the balm that changed her mind about cleansing balms.

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

Summer Fridays Super Amino Gel Cleanser - I love this gel cleanser, especially since they changed the packaging to a tube with a flip cap. It’s pH balanced, and great for all skin types. A nice gentle scent. I have a mini that I religiously travel with!

Josie Maran Pineapple Enzyme Pore Clearing Cleanser* - this is a really lovely gel cleanser that provides some mild exfoliation. I reach for this when my skin is dealing with congestion, but it’s not a cleanser I’d use everyday. It’s a great one to have in rotation, and I like to leave it on my skin as a mini mask in the shower for a few minutes before rinsing.

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.

Inkey List Salicylic Acid Cleanser* - This is a more affordable but less elegant version of the Jordan Samuel Skin Matinee Gel cleanser. Great for normal to oily skin types. It’s a gel texture, but not stripping at all. SO affordable.

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.

Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth AHA + BHA Serum* - This is a really effective serum at clearing congestion with both AHA + BHA, which most combo to oily skin needs. I find this to be quite gentle, so great if you want an exfoliant to incorporate but are also using a retinoid.

Paula’s Choice 2% BHA - a classic I always have in my collection. This is great for blackheads. I recommend the mini size ($10) if you’re just using it around the nose/chin or where you get blackheads and breakouts.

Toners:

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). If you have oily skin, skip a moisturizer with this.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA+BHA Toner* - This has been in my skincare cabinet for years, and IMO it’s a really underrated product by the brand. Despite its name, it’s main function is hydration- so don’t let this scare you! It’s really barely exfoliating. It has a thick, juicy texture similar to an essence. It does have a fairly strong watermelon scent, so skip if that’s not your thing.

Essences:

Caudalie VinoPerfect Brightening Essence - Hydrating, but also brightening, I’ve recently fallen back in love with this one! This bottle literally lasts forever too. Great if you’re looking to fade hyperpigmentation.

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

Mists:

Tower 28 SOS Mist - contains hypochlorous acid to soothe redness, and nourish the skin. Especially amazing for those with sensitive skin, acne, eczema, or rosacea. I use this on me and my toddler! Also great for maskne.

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 and then face.

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- it smells so good, and it has some emollients so its quite nourishing. It contains a blend of 84-percent watermelon, hyaluronic acid, and hibiscus to refresh skin and take that powdery look out of makeup. I use mostly cream makeup these days, but if you’re still a powder makeup person, this is great.

Vitamin C Serums:

Summer Fridays CC Me Vitamin C Serum - I bought this vitamin C serum after reading tons of rave reviews, and I get the hype now. It contains effective derivatives that help brighten and increase collagen production, but also contains peptides, and niacinamide. It has squalane too so it is quite nourishing.

First Aid Beauty 10% Vitamin C Brightening Serum* - This is a great sensitive skin-friendly vitamin C serum. It has no niacinamide, unlike the Summer Fridays, so great if you can’t tolerate. This also contains squalane to nourish, colloidal oatmeal to calm and soothe, and licorice root extract to brighten and provide extra antioxidant protection. This is also $50 for 1.7oz whereas most serums are only 1oz. So affordable!

Pigmentation Serums:

Vinoperfect Radiance Dark Spot Serum - this is an incredible option if you’re trying to prevent or fight hyperpigmentation, need antioxidant protection, and/or cannot use a vitamin c due to sensitivity. This contains viniferine, which is rich in reservatrol, polyphenols, and antioxidants, and is also a tyrosinase inhibitor. It helps to fight free radicals, prevent and fade hyperpigmentation, and brighten the skin.

Retinoids:

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.

Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol - I recommend this to so many clients and followers. A fabulous formula, that is on the stronger side (for Retinol— which isn’t that strong compared to Retinal and Trans-Retinoic Acid), but it is paired with nourishing ingredients that make it easy to incorporate into a routine.

Hydrating/Barrier Supporting Serums:

Summer Fridays Dream Oasis Deep Hydration Serum - This is unlike any other hydrating serum, or typical watery hyaluronic acid serum. It’s a thick gel-cream that has loads of soothing, calming and hydrating ingredients. It feels like a cloud, and they knocked this serum out of the park.

Merit Great Skin Instant Glowing Serum* - Merit’s first foray into skincare, and it’s a really lovely bi-phase (water+oil based mix) serum that hydrates, and really locks in the hydration. Also has niacinamide and some antioxidants. I love that this is $38 and 1.7oz. Great for travel + under makeup because it doubles as a serum + moisturizer for my skin.

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.

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.

Eye Creams:

Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Bright Eye Gel Cream* - I love the pump packaging for this. It contains vitamin c, niacinamide and peptides to firm, brighten and depuff. It has a great thin, lightweight texture that wears well under makeup.

Summer Fridays Light Aura Vitamin C+ Peptide Eye Cream - This is a really lovely light reflecting, and slightly color correcting eye cream that also has peptides + vitamin c to firm and brighten. Wears well under makeup.

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:

Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Gel Cream* - This ingredient list is stacked with antioxidants as well as hydrating, soothing, anti-aging ingredients. Its fragrance, essential oil, and silicone free. So lightweight, yet so hydrating. I think normal, combo and dry skin will like this the most for daytime, but may be too heavy if you’re oily in day time.

Tatcha Overnight Repair Serum in Cream Treatment* - The best overnight sleeping mask for soothing, calming, hydrating and nourishing the skin. I already bought a backup! Their best product by far.

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. The Glow Recipe Plum Plump moisturizer is also great for oily skin!

INNBEAUTY Project Slushy Serum 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 adjustable for all skin types, depending on how you use it.

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, and is great all over the body.

Face SPF:

Biossance Squalane + Zinc Sheer Mineral SPF 30 - super hydrating, and no white cast on my fair skin. If you’re fair, and have more normal to dry skin, you’d love this. Don’t recommend for those who don’t like a hydrating finish, are oily, or have a tan to deep skin tone.

Supergoop Every. Single. Face Watery Lotion SPF 50* - A broad spectrum SPF 50 with chemical filters, so it’ll work on all skin tones. It is also water resistant for 40 minutes! It’s hydrating, but not super dewy so most skin types will like this.

Summer Fridays Shadedrops SPF 30 - An all mineral spf that works on nearly all skin tones. Summer Fridays really nailed this formula. When I wear it with no moisturizer, it feels completely nonexistent on my skin. It’s my favorite for when I’m not wearing makeup. I prefer something a bit dewier for under makeup, but so many with oily skin skin loves this because it really helps control oil.

Fenty Hydra Vizor SPF 30 - a chemical SPF that is quite hydrating, and works for all skin tones. Great for those with normal to dry skin. Oily might feel like it’s too hydrating. Love that you can buy refills of this too! It does have a strong passionfruit sort of scent so if you prefer no fragrance, go with the Paula’s Choice below instead.

Paula’s Choice Youth Extending SPF 50 - another chemical SPF that works on ALL skin tones. Love the level of protection on this one. I think it’s best for normal to oily skin types, and has the best watery lightweight texture that reminds me of Asian sunscreens.

Face Oils:

Summer Fridays Heavenly 16 Facial Oil* - This is a blend of 16 fabulous oils, of medium weight. It has no fragrance or essential oils, so it would be great for all skin types, and those with very sensitive skin. This really impressed me.

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 Superclay Purify + Clear Power Mask* - easily the best clay mask I’ve tried in years. It is so purifying and clearing, but is so hydrating and nourishing. My skin looks and feels incredible after. Best for those who are acne prone, and normal to oily skin.

Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask* - an extremely moisturizing, calming, and soothing overnight mask. This was a staple for me last winter. Still a favorite, and although I reach for the Tatcha Indigo one more now— a good options, if Tatcha isn’t in your price range.

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. This is my “I’m super lazy and just want to apply one product at night” mask.

Lip Balms/Masks:

Glow Recipe Lip Pop - the watermelon shade gives a slight pink tint to the lips, and the blueberry gives a slight berry tint. It’s so slight that even my husband enjoys wearing these. They were shockingly hydrating and nourishing and my go-to daily balm for easy swiping.

Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm - this is balm but looks glossy on the lips, but is also pretty nourishing. It smells faintly of vanilla, and lasts a good amount of time! I love their newest shade, and the new packaging.

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. Gummy Bear is my personal favorite, but they always have fun seasonal flavors!

Laneige Lip Treatment Balm* - Their newest balm has the most genius packaging with the applicator that snaps into the top. I think this flavor is supposed to be coconut, but I get more pina colada vibes (pineapple + coconut). I find this to be only slightly less nourishing than the lip sleeping mask, but barely. It sometimes makes my lips tingle? But not always, and it doesn’t last as long as the mask. Honestly, it’s worth it for the packaging alone.

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:

Necessaire The Body Wash* - Hands down, my favorite luxe body wash. I love every scent, the packaging is chic, and my skin feels hydrated and happy. I love how it lathers nicely. My husband also loves. All of their products have a fragrance-free version if you prefer.

The Ouai Body Cleanser* - This smells amazing, but not so strong that it meshes poorly with my fragrance. I find it to be quite hydrating too. It’s great, but I like that the Necessaire is more unisex, so my husband will also use it.

Body Scrub:

Necessaire The Body Exfoliator* - a super unique formula, I’ve gone through like 6 of these. It’s like a jelly with little scrubby bits, but it has chemical exfoliants as well. It’s really giving you well rounded exfoliation, and it doesn’t leave a hydrating or oily film on the skin like more traditional scrubs, and like the Kopari I mention below.

Body Serums/Lotion/Cremes/Oils:

Necessaire The Body Serum* - If you could only grab one body product, this is it. This is my favorite body product of all time, and they recently updated it to be more hydrating, and less sticky. It has many different weights of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, panthenol. It strengthens the barrier and is soothing in addition to being hydrating. You can even use this on your face, feet, etc. I like to layer it under the body oil in the winter, and use it alone in the summer.

Necessaire The Body Oil* - this is a solid blend of cold-pressed organic oils. It’s no frills, cute packaging, and it works. And no fragrance!

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow AHA Pink Dream Body Cream* - As you know, I am not a body cream/lotion person, but I LOVE this for summer. I love the pump, and the subtle watermelon scent it left. It also absorbed super quickly + leaves my skin soft. Just screams summer.

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.

Deodorant

Necessaire The Deodorant*- this has chemical exfoliants to kill odor-causing bacteria, hydrating ingredients, as well as minerals to help keep you dry. I haven’t used anything else since I’ve switched to this. These also last forever. Eucalpytus is my favorite!

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 10+ tubs over the past several years and just grabbed the massive jug size for my shower.

Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair Super Moisture Conditioner* - this conditioner is HUGE, and it’s truly an extension of the mask. It’s super hydrating, and my curls look better when I style them, when I use this. SKIP the shampoo though, it made my hair feel like straw. Great for any damaged, dry, color-treated hair.

PATTERN Cleansing Shampoo - This is THE best clarifying shampoo I’ve ever used for curly hair. It has incredible slip and hydration, so I can comb through my curls while deeply cleansing, instead of leaving my hair feeling like straw, as most clarifying shampoos do. I can’t live without this!

PATTERN Hydration Shampoo - this is a fantastic hydrating shampoo for curly hair. It makes my hair feel clean, but also nourished. I like to use a clarifying shampoo after about every three washes, but this is a great non-clarifying option. I recommend PATTERN in general for those with more curly/thick/color-treated hair.

PATTERN Medium Conditioner - this is a super nourishing conditioner for low to normal porosity curls. It has tons of slip, which makes it great for detangling, but is also super hydrating. I love how all of PATTERN’s 'products come in value size jugs with pumps, and also minis great for travel.

PATTERN Leave-In Conditioner - this adds in extra hydration, helps detangle, and gives very soft curl definition. It’s great for those with fine curls, who want hydration and mild hold but don’t necessarily need a curl cream or gel. For me, it’s just extra extra hydration since I use a mask every time I shower too lol.

DAE Daily Shampoo - I was super skeptical of this brand, having one shampoo and conditioner for every hair type, but this felt cleansing, but not stripping and also had a really nice lather I think a lot of people will like. Both shampoo and conditioner have a fruity delicious scent, but it’s not overwhelming.

DAE Daily Conditioner - Also incredibly nourishing, and I was worried it would be nowhere near enough moisture. I really enjoyed this and I think most hair types would love this. They sell minis if you want to try the brand out first! Want to try more from this brand.

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 ten tubs of it (several 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 just ordered the massive jug size for my shower!

Hair Gel:

PATTERN Curl Gel - This is a gel/cream hybrid that gives medium to strong hold, depending on how much you use. It’s really all I’ve used since I bought it earlier this year and I think it would work for a lot of curl types, especially those who do better with a “curl cocktail” of gel and cream.

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. 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:

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!

Living Proof Full Dry Volume + Texture Spray - So many of my straight or fine haired friends love this, but if you have curly hair and find that towards the end of the week, you’re losing volume, this is great at adding it back and thus extending days between washes.

Dry Shampoo:

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Advanced Dry Shampoo* - This is their newest iteration, and I find it leaves a lot less residue and also has a much more subtle scent that doesn’t make my husband angry or overwhelm me so my fragrance can shine.

Hair Oil:

Ranavat Fortifying Hair Serum - a gorgeous hair oil that smells like actual heaven (Jasmine). It can also be used on body. Truly a luxe, treat yourself moment.

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 6 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 5byears 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.

Crown Affair The Silk Scrunchy - I wear these every night to bed, to keep my hair up and they are soft, don’t tug and they don’t leave any bends in my hair. I used to be obsessed with the Silk scrunchies, but these are more affordable and maintain their shape better!

Makeup

Face:

Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Concealer - Buildable, medium coverage with a radiant finish that looks just like skin. This is amazing for all over the face and under eyes. I wear shade 2 for fair neutral skin.

Merit The Minimalist Complexion Stick - this is a concealer and foundation stick in one. I think it works best for normal to oily skin types, but a lot of dry skin friends + followers say it works for them if their skin is prepped properly. It looks like you’re not wearing ANYTHING on the skin, it blends so seamlessly. Since it launched this has been my main base product, and I’m on my third tube! It is SO FREAKING GOOD. I wear the shade silk when I have no self-tan, and linen when I have a self-tan.

Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 Tinted Sunscreen Foundation* - provides SPF protection and up to a medium coverage. It’s a satin finish, with a non-tacky dry down. If you felt like Saie slip tint was too oily, this is for you. I wear shade 10-Larchmont when fair, and 15-Melrose when I’m self tan, and I prefer to apply about one finger length all over. Apply more than that, and it’s quiteeee moisturizing and feels too heavy on my skin. But this amount is enough to give me extra SPF coverage + gives my skin great coverage- meaning if you’re skimping on the amount, wear another SPF under it.

Milk Sunshine Under Eye Brightening Concealer - After seeing a few of my friends try this under there eyes, I knew I had to have it. It looks like nothing on my skin— and doesn’t give that super under-eye-concealer look, but looks super natural and healthy. If you have dry under eyes, skip it as it does cling to dry patches. I wear shade 1.

Saie Airset Radiant Loose Setting Powder - The best powder for people who HATE powders and want to glow glow glow (ME). Never feels dry, and doesn’t make my skin matte, just reduces oil where I need it and let’s me glow. I use the translucent shade.

Givenchy Prisme Libre Loose Setting Powder - Shade 01 For Fair Skintones - I grabbed this after it went viral on Tik Tok, and I think the tiny travel size is perfect since I can never use up powders (even though I only see they have the mini in the fair shade). This will make you MATTE and pore less, and really brighten, so I really only use this under my eyes, but if that’s your vibe, get a full size and use all over.

Cheek:

Blush:

Tower 28 Beach Please Lip + Cheek Cream - I own every shade (the first three I purchased myself) and I can’t get enough of how easy this formula is to blend. Great for beginners and for seasoned cream blush users! Power Hour is my perfect sunkissed terracotta for a sunburnt look, but I use every single shade in this formula.

LYS Beauty Satin Matte Cream Blush - These are SO beginner friendly and great for all skin types. They look skin-like (satin), but feel matte (not tacky) on the skin. Such stunning colors, and something for everyone here! Also really affordable.

Rose Inc Cream Blush (Refillable) - I was so skeptical of this because of how sticky it feels in the pan, but these don’t feel tacky on the skin, and blend beautifully to a skin-like finish. Heliotrope is the most gorgeous neutral nude that goes with everything, and Foxglove is a gorgeous terracotta.

Benefit Cosmetics Benetint - after the comeback on Tik Tok this year, I picked this up again and have been loving it for a quick natural flush on the lips + cheeks. It looks truly sunkissed!

Bare Minerals Blonzer* - while I love all three shades, Kiss of Rose is my most used and the most gorgeous sunkissed terracotta. These are glowy, so work sort of as a blush and highlight in one.

Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush - while this looks scary and bright pink in the pan, it adjusts to the pH of your skin to create a unique pink shade, that is flattering on literally everyone. I also have coral which I love for more warm-toned looks/summertime.

Armani Beauty Neo Nude Color Melting Cream Blush - the coolest texture- these feel like a moussey sponge in the pan, but dry down to a powder feel on the skin so they are undetectable on the skin, but give a little glow on the cheeks that looks healthy and radiant. It reminds me a lot of the Victoria Beckham blushes. I like blushes that feel matte on the skin, but I don’t want anything to be matte looking on my skin.

Bronzer:

Tower 28 Bronzino Cream Bronzer in West Coast - This is like my one and done, bronzer/highlight/blush in one product. It looks glittery in the pan, but on the skin just looks so glowy. This color also leans red in undertone, and looks super natural on me, and almost like a blush/bronzer/highlight in one.

Merit Bronze Balm Sheer Sculpting Bronzer in Clay - a truly sheer but buildable formula that isn’t heavy or sticky on the skin. This formula leans warm— it’s not orange but more orange/yellow. It is one of the only warm toned bronzers I use and actually looks natural on my skin tone! Love the stick for ease of use + travel.

Makeup by Mario Skin Enhancer in Light/Medium - a sheer bronzing balm, but this is more neutral/red in undertone than the Merit bronzer, so a better option for those with fair/cool undertones. This one is a hair sticky, so if that’s not your thing, skip it. Dry skin would probably love though.

MILK Matte Cream Bronzer in Baked - this is the gateway bronzer to cream products if you want to dip your toes, but something I still love and reach for. Get the mini size! It’s amazing for travel. I just wish they had more shades in this.

Hourglass Ambient Bronzer in Diffused Bronze Light - this is the bronzer for the fair girlies who think everything is too orange or warm toned. This is slightly cool toned, and looks incredible in the winter when I’m the most fair.

Highlighter:

Merit Day Glow Highlighter in Cava - this formula is very subtle, and looks more like your skin is healthy + doing the glowing. It’s a hair sticky so may not be for everyone, but I don’t find my hair getting stuck in it, so I don’t mind. This particular shade is a neutral champagne which I love since I don’t like highlights that lean too cool or warm since my skin tone is neutral.

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 if you prefer a powder. I’ve been over the blinding highlighters for a few years now, 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!

Eye:

Eyeshadow:

Danessa Myricks Colorfix Eye+Cheek+Lip - this is a quick drying formula that lasts all day, and gives you limitless options. I am not a MUA so I like to stick to using these on the eyes. Milky Way is the perfect glitter for a wet eye look. Celebration is my perfect every day brown, that is pretty neutral on my skin tone. So many colors to choose from!

Kaja Bento Eyeshadow Shimmer Trio - The shade Chocolate Dahlia has become my go-to daily eyeshadow. It’s really simply a neutral cocoa eyeshadow trio, to create the perfect base, shade, and a neutral champagne shimmer topcoat that is totally wearable for daytime. This is a makeup minimalist’s dream and a good option if you don’t want to bite the bullet on Tom Ford’s Cocoa Mirage palette.

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. I have two quads, but one got discontinued. This one is still available though:

• 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! So many easy/great tutorials for how to use this.

Tom Ford Eye Color Crème Quad - These are like crème-powder formulas that apply like powders, but are creamy, and extremely blendable. My most worn is Rose Quartz which is a great neutral palette for fair to light skin, but they now have 5 color ways, and some darker palettes that will work with more skin tones.

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 a few years ago and it’s beautiful, the shades are easy to blend. I know a lot of people say this is “cool toned” but it is definitely neutral, and a lot more skin tones can pull it off. Can’t recommend it enough. I bring it to every wedding I’ve ever attended.

Pat McGrath Mothership V Eyeshadow Palette - Bronze Seduction - I’ve had this now a couple years, and I reach for it whenever I want a statement sparkly/glitter eye. Her shimmer toppers are just unlike anything else on the market. This palette in particular is quite neutral— with a few brown matte shades, and lots of shimmery goodness. It’s great for those who aren’t super confident in their eyeshadow skillz. Just slap a glitter over it and TA-DA!

Mascara:

Tower 28 Make Waves Mascara- This is the mascara that changed the game in 2022. It gives volume, curl, length, definition and my lashes DO.NOT.BUDGE. I have extremely sensitive eyes, and this one never bothers me. Great for every day or when you need a more glam lash look.

Merit Lengthening Tubing Mascara - this was my favorite mascara going into 2022 and it’s still a favorite for everyday. It looks like your lashes but majorly enhanced. It’s tubing so removes easily with just warm water, so I never lose my lashes! This is great if you already have lashes to work with.

Eyeliner:

I don’t have any eyeliner favorites from Sephora! I swear by the Victoria Beckham Beauty ones, and they’ve ruined me because I don’t want to use any others.

Eyebrow:

Patrick Ta Major Brow Defining Pencil - this is a small pointed tip, with a creamy but also waxy formula (the perfect balance IMO), where I can easily get pigment, but its long lasting.

Patrick Ta Major Brow Lamination Gel - this is a great brow gel whether you’re into the laminated brow look or not. It has great hold, and keeps my brows up all day! I also love the wand and the comb on this of any brow gel I’ve tried.

Lip:

Lip Liner:

Makeup Forever Artist Pencils - fell really hard in love with lip liners in 2022, and I own about 8 shades in this formula. Affordable, comfortable + long wearing. They’re dry/waxy enough that they are long wearing, but creamy enough that they don’t tug and are easy to blend. Favorite shades:

• Wherever Walnut - MLBB and my most worn + complimented

• Anywhere Caffeine - More brown/beige than WW, and looks great for more beige nude lips.

• Versatile Chestnut - A berry brown that looks amazing with both berry + brown lip shades. (My second most worn)

• Up + Down Tan - A peachy beige.

• Total Taupe - this is the perfect brown for fair to medium skin tones, as it’s a little lighter than endless cacao which is also a classic brown to contour the lips.

Lipstick:

Merit Signature Lipstick - when these launched, Merit sent me two shades, and I immediately bought 6 more. Easily my most worn lip product, as they can be worn sheer or built up for opaque color. Creamy and hydrating, but look satin-matte on the lips, which I love.

Patrick Ta Major Headlines Matte Suede Lipstick - She’s Not From Here is the perfect matte orange red. I also have the matching lip liner in the same shade, and it’s amazing! The shade is identical to my favorite VBB lipstick in fire, but VBB’s formula is more cream. Grab PT’s version if you prefer a matte bold lip!

Lipgloss/Balm/Oils:

Dior Addict Lip Glow - I love pairing this with the lip glow oil or maximizer in the same color. Not the most hydrating balm I’ve ever used, but great paired with the other products and I love the color- I alway get compliments.

Dior Lip Glow Oil in Mahogany - love the color and fat doe foot for application. It’s on the stickier side, but I don’t mind because it lasts a solid 4 hours without eating, and you can feel the nourishment on your lips for several hours after. It’s a favorite in my collection now. This is the perfect mix of Berry-Brown and Rose, and I haven’t found anything else quite like this shade.

Dior Lip Maximizer in Mahogany - This is the same beautiful color as the lip glow oil, but with some plumping benefits. It has a small doe foot to allow more precise application, and it’s a bit less sticky on the lips than the lip glow oil, (but I actually love that it’s sticky— because it’s more nourishing than this formula), and I think the lip glow oil does last a bit longer on the lips.

Tower 28 ShineOn Jelly Gloss + Milky Gloss - a nourishing, non-sticky, non-smelly gloss formula that I’ve converted lots of people to! My favorite shades are Fire (sheer orange), Coconut (milky mauve), Cashew (milky rosy brown), and Pistachio (milky pink nude).

Merit Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil - these are a great everyday lip product to throw on and go for a little color + lip nourishment. I wish the oil were a bit more robust/thick and didn’t move quite as much. But I LOVE the colors, and after the oil disappears the stain stays, which I love. Favorite shades are Marrakech (soft peach), Taupe (neutral brown), Cara Cara (orange red), and Sangria (deep berry).

NARS Afterglow Lip Balm - I grabbed Wicked Ways, a gorgeous berry color on the recommendation of a follower, and I have no regrets. It’s a really hydrating sheer to buildable lip balm, but it’s not such a soft formula that it becomes a complete mess in the bullet.

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.

PHLUR Missing Person - this smells like an actual missing person (meaning you throw on your boyfriends sweatshirt after he left, and it smells like him type of vibe). It’s warm + cozy, and sits close to the skin. Notes of skin musk, bergamot nectar and blonde woods. This also has hints of Jasmine so it wears well spring/summer/fall I just wish it lasted a hair longer.

Dedcool Milk - This also smells like a boyfriends sweatshirt (do you sense a trend here??). Think Glossier You but elevated and I get so many compliments on this. It also layers well with so many other fragrances (as it was designed to do so). Notes of bergamot, amber and white musk. This is the best fall/winter fragrance.

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.

NEST Sunkissed Hibiscus - this is a much more affordable dupe for Soleil Blanc. It is floral, but beachy and musky. I feel like I am at an expensive resort but paid half price.

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 that transports you to the Amalfi coast.

Candles

NEST Candles are my favorite. 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. I am buying my mom a diffuser and candle set, like I do every year. Do keep in mind, these are quite strong so burn in large spaces, or avoid if you’re prone to fragrance induced headaches.

Tools + Brushes

Skincare Tools:

Makeup Brushes:

Rare Beauty Concealer Brush - buy this for under eye concealer, and thank me later. Shaped like a finger, and pats concealer into the skin. Changed my life. Only $16!!

IT Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Complexion Brush #7 - My most used brush for cream bronzer + blush. I bought two because when one is dirty, I can’t live without it.

MERIT Tapered Blending Brush - a one and done brush for blending concealer, foundation, blush, bronzer, highlight. It’s perfect for my fellow brush minimalists out there!

Nars Yachiyo Brush #27 - This is the perfect brush for powder 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 over TEN years!! And it’s still in perfect condition.

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:

My favorite is from Amazon!

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.