Sephora Sale Spring 2023 Recommendations
Hi all! Here is my updated list of Sephora favorites as of April 13, 2023.
**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. This blog post is not sponsored. Also, if it has an asterisk, that means the product was discovered in PR, meaning it was gifted by the brand, but I may have repurchased it on my own. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Sale Details:
The event is online and in stores, with code SAVENOW which saves you a different amount depending on your status at Sephora:
Rouge -April 14-21 - 20% discount
VIB - April 18-21 - 15% discount
Insiders - April 18-24 - 10% discount
Skincare
Cleansers:
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser - This is my favorite first cleanse at Sephora. 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 sometimes release cute sets with limited edition scents.
Mara Chia + Moringa Algae Enzyme Cleansing Oil* - This is a total treat yourself product. Luxe packaging and experience, with fruit enzymes that gently exfoliate, squalane and moringa keep skin nourished, and it has their algae blend. This removes all makeup and sunscreen without stripping the skin. I hope they launch a second cleanse soon!
Innbeauty Project Keep It Clean Hydrating Gel Cleanser - this is my favorite cleanser at Sephora right now, and I’ll keep buying it with my own money. It has ceramides and amino acids, and despite being a lightly foaming gel cleanser, never strips my skin and is pH balanced. It does an amazing job at removing makeup too, so I love to travel with the mini size from their kit.
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 often 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 or quite sensitive.
Innbeauty Project Refine AHA + BHA Texture + Pore Serum* - this is a more intense AHA/BHA exfoliant that is very much equivalent to the DDG peel pads in the original strength, but more potent than the Glow Recipe Strawberry Smooth. I like that this is a more affordable option than the DDG, but is nearly as effective. I would recommend this for those who do not have sensitive skin.
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.
Hydrating Toners:
Dr Jart Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum Toner - An ultra hydrating and soothing toner that I pat into my skin like an essence. It’s got a thick, milky texture and contains ceramides and panthenol to fortify and strengthen the barrier. Fragrance free!
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.
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!
Innbeauty Project Green Machine Vitamin C* - this is described as a serum-oil hybrid, but actually feels more like a jelly serum. It contains one of my favorite vitamin c derivatives— tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (aka THDA). My skin responds really well to it, and it’s stable. This also has some other nice antioxidants.
Mara Chlorella + Reishi Sea Vitamin C Serum* - this is a lightweight oil that also contains THDA, a blend of 14 natural vitamin c rich fruits, as well as adaptogens. This is my favorite Mara product. Great to use as a facial oil, or as a vitamin c step if you’re dry.
Pigmentation Serums:
Vinoperfect Radiance Dark Spot Serum - this is an incredible option if you need antioxidant protection, and 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. However, this isn’t the most potent hyperpigmentation fighter, but is great if your in “maintenance mode” and trying to prevent future hyperpigmentation. It does have a scent.
Honestly, most of my pigmentation heavy hitters are not sold at Sephora. See my favorites here.
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.
Shani Darden Retinol Reform - A retinol and AHA in one, this is a great beginner friendly retinoid that also has a bit of lactic acid to exfoliate, so also great for those with dry skin and have a hard time tolerating heavier duty retinoids. Gorgeous texture + packaging.
Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol - I recommend this to many clients and followers. A really nice 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.
Youth to The People Peptides + C Energy Eye Concentrate* - a lightweight gel formula that feels instantly cooling, depuffing and hydrating. One of my favorite launches of theirs in a long time.
Innbeauty Project Bright & Tight Eye Cream* - this has a peachy, shimmery color that immediately brightens the under eye, and while it’s not the MOST hydrating eye cream I’ve ever used, I love how it looks especially for no makeup days, but also wears well under concealer. I’d pick the YTTP or SF vitamin c eye creams if you have super dry under eyes.
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 buy one at every sale now! Their best product by far, and one of my favorite skincare products of all time.
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.
Shani Darden Hydration Peptide Cream* - I recently got this in PR, and it quickly became a favorite. It has a really gorgeous texture unlike any other moisturize I have (and I have a lot). It’s really plumping and nourishing without being heavy or too dewy. It just looks radiant, and provides all day hydration. You also get 2.5oz as opposed to the typical 1.7oz.
Dr. Jart Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Cream* - If you were a fan of the original version, you’ll love this new iteration even more. It now contains even more ceramides and has the same gorgeous texture, but feels even more nourishing but isnt’ any heavier.
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.
Face SPF:
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. I keep repurchasing this one!
Saie Sunvisor Radiant SPF 35 - this one is a light-medium bronze shade that really evens your skin tone, and is quite glowy. I love mixing this with base products in the summer to deepen them to match my self-tan. It’s pretty dewy but dries down so it doesn’t feel wet, but I’d still only recommend for those normal to dry.
Dr. Jart Every Sun Day Sun Fluid SPF 50+ - this might seem expensive but you get 3.4oz for $42. This truly feels like a watery, milky Asian sunscreen despite having US filters. It’s lightweight, with a skin-like radiant finish that looks amazing under makeup. Been using this for 5+ years and still really loving it.
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— but would still recommend it for those who are normal to dry.
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:
Mara Algae + Moringa Universal Facial Oil* - This is a mid weight oil powered by its algae blend, moringa which contains loads of antioxidants and watermelon, rich in fatty acids. It’s one of my favorite oils and I’m so happy it’s at Sephora now. The mini size is so cute!
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 great product, and although I reach for the Tatcha Indigo one instead now— a good option, 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:
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 vanilla beige the most, but they have a bunch of fun new shades!
Laneige Lip Glowy Balm - the balm version of the 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 - Still one of my favorite lip masks and you can’t beat the price for the size. It stays on my lips all night and comes in tons of fun flavors. Gummy Bear and Mango are my personal favorites, but they always have fun seasonal flavors!
Laneige Lip Treatment Balm* - Their 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. I honestly think the packaging is just so fun and smart, and worth it for that alone lol.
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
*It’s pretty rare for me to buy body products at Sephora— I much prefer Target. However, if that’s your jam, the ones below are all things I’ve tried and really enjoyed!
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:
Hanni Splash Salve In-Shower Body Moisture Treatment* - This is a thick, lush balm in aluminum packaging, that you apply in the shower. It has some really thick and nourishing body oils and butters and just melts on contact with your skin, to provide long-lasting hydration. I hate having to get out of the shower to apply moisturizing products, so this is a game changer. You just apply while the water is running, step out and towel off- it’s truly genius, and the tub lasts forever!! You need the tiniest amount for each limb.
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! My only wish is that this was in plastic packaging and/or had a pump to make it more friendly for the shower.
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 workout involves being outside! Love that this also comes in a giant jug size for the whole fam.
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.
Deodorant
Necessaire The Deodorant*- this has chemical exfoliants to kill odor-causing bacteria, hydrating ingredients, as well as minerals to help keep you dry. It’s one of the few natural deodorants that have worked for me!
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:
Primers
Innbeauty Project Face Glaze* - this is a thick hydrating cream that has a nice neutral champagne glow to it. It’s very subtle, and looks like a lit from within glow, so it’s really nice to wear alone on no makeup days too. If you have dry skin, it’s a dream.
Saie Beauty Dewy Glow Gel - this is going to give a similar glow to the Innbeauty but it has a watery-gel texture, so not as nourishing. Great for all skin types. I love Starglow, a universal champagne color, but Sunglow is great for mixing with base products to deepen them for summer. The starglow shade comes in a mini size!
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Hydrating Primer* - this feels like a thick hydrating gel, that is quite tacky so your makeup really sticks to it. This is amazing for dry skin, and my favorite primer for winter. Love that it has a mini size which is perfect for travel.
Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Makeup Primer* - even on my dry skin, this gives a beautiful soft matte finish to makeup, without looking dry or cakey. It’s going to be my go-to come summer. This really truly blurs texture and pores, so it’s nice to even just use in areas on cheeks where you want to smooth the pores. If you’re oily I can imagine this really helps to control oil.
Setting Sprays
Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Setting + Refreshing Spray* - this feels so cooling and incredible. It makes makeup look flawless, and last all day. I love reapplying this on hot days.
Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying + Blurring Setting Spray* - again, this will not dry out your skin, but just soften it quite a bit and make your makeup last ALL day and night.
Concealer
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.
Foundation
Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Foundation - If you want a medium coverage, satin skin-like foundation, you have to try the Luminous Silk Foundation! I don’t wear foundation regularly, but if I have a wedding or special event, I always break it out (I wear shade 1.5).
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.
Skin Tints
Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint - this is the perfect skin tint that will work for all skin types. It has hyaluronic acid and squalane, making it hydrating so it doesn’t cling to dry patches, but it has a really natural, satin slightly radiant finish that just looks like your skin but better! I wear shade one, but it’s flexible because of the sheerness, so I could also wear shade 2, or even 3 when I’m self tan.
Powder
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:
Cream + Liquid 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.
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush - I have fallen in love with this formula after discovering the dewy formula, and grabbing it in a few lighter shades. Happy and Encourage have been my daily go-to’s, but also really enjoying Believe. This isn’t super beginner friendly, since you don’t need more than a teeny dot, so beware! If you can get it, then you’ll love it.
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 last year, I picked this up again and have been loving it for a quick natural flush on the lips + cheeks. It looks truly sunkissed!
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.
Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick - This is a stunning cream blush, that is superrrrr luxe. I love Petal (a dusty nude rose) for everyday, as well as Dou Dou, which is a warm rose that just really brightens the face. I also love Mimi (a neutral beige), but it’s only sold on her website. Such a splurge but every one of you who has tried it has loved.
Powder Blush:
Gucci Luminous Matte Blush in Rosey Beige - if you only get one blush this sale, let it be this. My most worn, it’s the perfect beige meets pink meets mauve. If you’re a neutral blush lover, this is a must. It really just looks luminous and skin like, similar to the bronzer. No glitter in site.
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush - Nothing beats hourglass powders, and the way they blend to look flawless, and hydrating almost as if you’re wearing a cream blush. They just become one with the skin. Euphoric Fusion has been a long-time favorite— a soft lilac, that looks like a mauve/purple on the skin. STUNNING. I also love Sublime Flush, a soft pink. It has some peach and lilac mixed in it that really balances and neutralizes it.
Laura Mercier Blush Color Infusion in Fresco - this formula has been around forever, and it’s a really reliable, fantastic performing blush. The color Fresco is REALLY special, as it is a nude blush that looks sparkly in the pan, but on the cheeks it just looks glowy and beautiful. Incredibly long-wearing. I’ve had this one in my collection 5+ years and reach for it regularly.
Valentino Eye2Cheek Eyeshadow + Blush* - Okay, hear me out on this one. She’s expensive, and the packaging for the price LOOKS pretty, but it feels lightweight and cheap. The formula however, is fantastic, so decide how you will. This formula feels like a soft, moussey almost powder that blends like a dream. They have matte and luminous shades. These wear just like the Gucci blushes, but just have WAY more shade options. The Gucci shades all lean warm, but Valentino have some gorgeous neutral and cool tones thrown in there so worth taking a look if you love a high end blush. I have 02 - a cool pink with light reflecting pearls and I love it.
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.
Cream Bronzer:
Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Bronzer Stick in Bright Side - This is THE PERFECT cream bronzer for my skin tone. The formula glides on, is super creamy and blends like a dream. But its not sticky or heavy on the skin. It just feels like skin. This color is also the perfect neutral shade that isn’t too pigmented or too sheer. No glitter or anything.
Westman Atelier Face Trace Contour Stick in Biscuit - It’s called a contour, and it can work as that, but if you’re fair this also is a stunning neutral leaning cool bronzer. I love wearing it in the winter. They have a mini size! So creamy, WA products are so easy to blend.
Nudestix Nudies Matte Cream Bronzer in Sunkissed - This is a gorgeous terracotta colored bronzer that doubles as a blush. The perfect summer flush if you want to look sunkissed. This is amazing to take on vacation as a one and done product.
Tower 28 Bronzino Cream Bronzer in West Coast - This is like my one and done, bronzer/highlight/blush in one product but I reserve it for summer time. 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 pretty natural on my skin tone! If you’re fair/light and lean warm, this is really nice. 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 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. I prefer this shade when I am self-tan. The tiny packaging is amazing for travel and I’m so happy they just launched so many new shades. I think Toasted is the perfect shade for those with fair neutral to cool skin. Technically a contour, but looks amazing as a bronzer on these skin tones.
Powder Bronzer:
Gucci Eclat Soleil Luminous Bronzer in 01 - This is the perfect powder bronzer IMO. I like luminous powder bronzers, and this one looks luminous but has no glitter or anything, it just looks like healthy skin. So finely milled and you can slap this on over creams without powdering. The shade is neutral, with a little pink which looks like an incredibly natural flush on fair skin. This is just so nuanced, and beautiful. The packaging is straight up ART. Perfection and worth the price.
Guerlain Terracotta Light Healthy Glow Bronzer - another luxury powder bronzer, I’m sorry, I’m sorry lol - I love the shade selection on these. They have a light cool (00) that is amazing for winter, and a light warm (01) that I love to wear in the summer. Also can double as a blonzer. Highly fragranced so stay away if that’s not your thing.
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. It also is easy to apply over creams, and you can really never overdo it. No fragrance!
Highlighter:
Westman Atelier Lit Up Cream Highlighter Stick in Nectar - the mini sizes!! I grabbed this in a mini and i love how tiny it is for travel, and it’s at a much better price, if you can never use up a whole highlight. This color is the perfect flesh colored champagne, I don’t find it to be too warm or peachy on me. Just looks like healthy, glowing skin.
Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer Highlight in Enlighten - this champagne color looks beautiful on the skin. This is HUGE for the price, and how much you get. I love mixing it with her blushes to make them even more glowy. Eyeing the pink Enchant shade.
Merit Day Glow Highlighter in Cava - this cream 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:
Armani Eye Tint Liquid Eyeshadows - they truly have a shade for everyone, and this is foolproof— you just simply blend (a finger will do), and then they set and don’t budge for 12+ hours. The most beginner friendly eyeshadows ever. My go-to everyday shades are:
18 Light Nude - Cool Beige Matte
11 Rose Ashes - A rose gold shimmer
8 Flannel - nude with pink reflect (this is gorgeous alone, looks like your eyelids but brighter)
9 Cold Copper - a classic neutral champagne shimmer
17 Sunset - a red/purple shift that is like Tom Ford Honeymoon in a bottle
Urban Decay 24/7 Moondust Eyeshadow - Rediscovered Space Cowboy this year, the perfect light champagne sparkle eyeshadow that looks amazing as a topper, or on its own. I love wearing it over some bronzer on my lids. It has gold and silver flecks that just looks wet on the lids, but super wearable for everyday.
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 I’ve brought it everywhere I’ve traveled for a solid 2 years since I got it.
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, and I reach for it constantly:
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.
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. This is what I reach for when I want a more glam lash. I have extremely sensitive eyes, and this one never bothers me.
Merit Lengthening Tubing Mascara - this was my favorite mascara in 2021 and it’s still a favorite for everyday. It looks like your lashes but majorly enhanced. This is a more everyday, fluffy eyelash. 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:
Kulfi Underlined Kakal Clean Waterproof Long-Wear Eyeliner - this is the PERFECT eyeliner formula. It’s not so creamy that it blends away, but it’s not so stiff that its challenging to glide on smoothly. It’s like Goldie locks. It’s so affordable too, and they have a mix of everyday and fun shades, and they’ve told me they’re launching a purple and teal eventually!! AH!
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 Liners:
Tower 28 One Liner - These are at such a great price, are creamy and glide on. Super easy to blend, and I love that they can be used on the eyes and cheeks too. I love all three shades!
Draw Me - Chocolate Brown
Work of Art - Pinky Brown
Fill Me In - Light Rosy Nude
Sephora Rouge Gel Lip Liner - this is such an incredible formula for the price. Glides on smoothly, and once it sets, it doesn’t budge. My favorite shades:
01 The Nudest - a cool matte nude - this is the closest dupe I’ve been able to find for the NYX nude beige. Perfect contour color for my skin tone.
28 Sink or Suede - a matte pink brown - perfect everyday shade
Makeup by Mario Ultra Suede Sculpting Lip Pencil - this isn’t the most creamy formula, but it’s incredibly long wearing. I love that it comes with a little brush on the other side like a lot of high end lip liner formulas. I bought it specifically for the color Kevin, which is a deep mauve-pink that is gorgeous.
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner - Charlotte is the queen of making the most perfect variations of pink/brown. These are creamy, but really set down and are long wearing. My favorite shades:
Pillow Talk Medium - a light neutral pink with a hint of brown
Supersize Me - a bright medium pink (slightly less brown than pillow talk medium)
Iconic Nude - A classic nude
Love Trap - A warm pink/brown
Bare Minerals Mineralist Lasting Lip Liner - this is the creamiest lip liner I’ve ever tried. Because of this, I love using this all over the lips as my lip color, and adding a gloss or lip oil on top. I always get asked what’s on my lips when I wear these two. Because it’s so creamy, its super comfortable to wear, but isn’t my most long wearing lip liner.
Blissful Blush - a medium neutral (slightly leaning warm) pink - I use this all over the lips.
Cherished Rose - A brown-rose - I love to use this on the outer edges to really define/contour the lips
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. Most worn shades:
Wherever Walnut - MLBB and my most worn + complimented
Anywhere Caffeine - More brown/beige than WW, and looks great for more beige nude lips.
Lipstick/Lip Tints:
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.
Hourglass Unlocked Satin Crème Lipsticks - These are a super creamy, yet still thin satin lipstick that is opaque with one swipe. They are extremely comfortable and pretty nourishing on the lips. The swatches online are not helpful and true to tone, so I recommend watching videos on social media of someone with your skin tone applying them. I’m not a HUGE lipstick girlie, but I am so glad I grabbed a few of these.
Rare Beauty Matte Soufflé Cream Lipsticks - these are totally underrated and not talked about enough. If you prefer a matte lip look, but want something still quite comfortable, try these! I own two shades (Confident - a rose mauve, and Strengthen - a cool leaning berry), but they have a shade for everyone’s preferences.
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 of a creamy satin. Grab PT’s version if you prefer a matte bold lip!
Rare Beauty Tinted Lip Oil - these are really a jelly lip stain, that are SUPER comfy on the lips. Once the jelly goes away, you’re left with a very long-wearing stain. Hope, Happy and Wonder are so similar— Wonder is my favorite!
Kaja Jelly Charm Glazed Lip Stain* - These are just maybe a tad less hydrating than the Rare Beauty, but are supppperrr similar. There are more brown/berry tones here so that might suit your preferences better.
Fenty Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain - I only own this in Mai Tai, but its truly the most stunning summer bright pop of pink. Not as hydrating as the Kaja or Rare Beauty, but this color is special.
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 flush of color these give on the lips. This smells slightly minty.
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. Slightly cooling/minty feeling on the lips, and minty scent.
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. Minty scent!
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 Coconut (milky mauve), Pistachio (milky rosy pink) and Sesame (milky mauve). This isn’t a crazy thick formula, but does plump and fill lip lines nicely + cute packaging.
Innbeauty Project Lip Glaze Oil - easily one of my favorite lip products ever, I bought every shade and raved about them so much they added me to the PR list lol. Sephora only carries four shades, which are all stunning. My favorite right now is Mystery, which turns into a light pink (a total Dior pink lip glow oil dupe). This smells like fruit punch!
Ami Cole Lip Treatment Oil - This is a THICK, grippy lip oil/balm that really plumps and fills lip lines. It has a faint vanilla scent I am addicted to. I can’t wait for them to launch more shades. I have the shade smitten, which is the perfect watermelon lip for summer.
Merit Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil - these aren’t my favorite lip product, but it’s more because of my own personal preferences, but I know so many of you love this! It’s 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 is nice. 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.
Makeup by Mario Moistureglow Plumping Lip Serum - a super melty glossy balm, that smells and feels strongly of menthol, so if you don’t love that tingle, back away now. I love Pink Glow, a sheer pink, and Rosewood Glow, a true mauve— but they have brownie and other beige colors if that is more your thing. I prefer the ones without glitter.
Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm - these are SO SPECIAL. I got sent one by my affiliate platform, and fell in love with the formula and picked up two more shades. Slip is the perfect pinky nude, and Lure is a gorgeous berry. Just like the lipsticks, their swatches online are awful, so watch some videos to select shades! These are slightlyyyy minty but barely, and they don’t burn or anything. They just plump lip lines and look incredible. The packaging is CHIC.
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.
PHLUR Somebody Wood* - The perfect winter fragrance, this is woody as the name suggests, but is really balanced and also warm, with a little bit of sweet and floral, but the woody/warmth is really at the heart of this fragrance.
PHLUR Solar Power* - SUMMER IN A BOTTLE! It is a bright, citrus forward fragrance that is still really grounded with a little musk. If you are a fan of citrus, and love a good luxe smelling summer fragrance, you have to try this.
PHLUR Phloria - This is like the floral sister to Solar Power. It’s got bergamot off the top, but also has jasmine and gardenia, with a sandalwood base.
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. (PS I used to love Glossier You but they updated the formula and it doesn’t last as long anymore.
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!!
Rare Beauty All Over Eyeshadow Brush - This little brush is perfect for blending cream eyeshadows in a pinch. So small and amazing for travel.
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.
Saie Fluffy Setting Powder Brush - This is a gorgeous little powder brush, that works well with any powder, not just the Saie one.
Saie The Base Foundation Brush - this is a dense kabuki similar to the Merit, but I actually thing this one is better quality, and it’s $4 cheaper. I love using this for base products (foundation, concealer, skin tints, etc.)
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 well 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.