Beauty Favorites
When I first started my blog, way back when in October 2009, it was largely focused on beauty because it was what I was most passionate about. Since then, I've tried what must be hundreds, if not thousands of various beauty products and now have a much more tame collection of products with only items I really use and love in my stash.
In addition to all the products I'll talk about, I've probably tried at least 5-10 equivalents from other brands over the years, but these have stood the test of wear and time. You'll notice that skincare is the most extensive, and that's because it's what I've grown to become more passionate about.
Even though these are my tried and true (#loyal) products, I'd love recommendations or to hear what you've been trying out lately for summer!
Skincare
iS Clinical Active Serum: Blackheads? Dark spots? This serum will tingle and transform your face for the better, and when used over time leads to a healthier and fresher looking complexion.
Glossier Serum Super Pack: These three serums have totally transformed my skin for the better in their own special ways. Pure for when I'm breaking out, Bounce for when I'm feeling dry, and Glow for when I'm feeling lackluster. Read more about this trio on my full review. Never tried Glossier? Get 10% off when you shop here.
Glossier Mega Greens Galaxy Pack: At least once a week, if not more, you can spot me sporting this mask, which clears up any impurities without drying me out. Never tried Glossier? Get 10% off when you shop here.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O: After removing my makeup with a cleansing wipe, this is the next step to get anything else off. I just finished up the first large bottle I picked up last summer in France and am onto the second, so this will last you a long time!
M-61 by Blue Mercury Powerglow Peel: I only recently began using these, but wow do they make a difference. These glycolic peel pads refresh dull looking skin, even if you just use them once or twice a week after cleansing.
Glossier Invisible Shield: Sunscreen needs to be applied, every day, no matter what. This is super light and works great under my makeup, I can't wait to keep using it through the summer! Never tried Glossier? Get 10% off when you shop here.
YOUTH TO THE PEOPLE Age Prevention Cleanser: This cleanser is fantastic and I feel good about putting it on my skin because it's made with ingredients I put into my body. I did a full review of it if you want to learn more.
Farmacy Eye Dew Total Eye Cream: Thankfully, I don't deal with under eye lines or darkness, but this leaves my under eye region feeling plump and moisturized.
Makeup
Glossier Perfecting Skin Tint: This gives the perfect amount of barely there coverage that is perfect for the upcoming hot summer months when you won't want a lot on your skin. Never tried Glossier? Get 20% off when you shop here.
Glossier Boy Brow: I definitely feel naked without this on my brows. First I apply a bit of brown to the sparse spots, and go ever everywhere with clear. Never tried Glossier? Get 20% off when you shop here.
Glossier Cloud Paint: For dewy cheek color that doesn't look too heavy, cloud paint is where it's at. All four of these shades get used regularly for me at various points of my face. Never tried Glossier? Get 20% off when you shop here.
Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Microfinish Powder: This locks in my whole face without leaving it powdery or dry looking, and blends in easily.
Fresh Sugar Nourishing Advanced Therapy Lip Balm: I don't wear a ton of color on my lips, but Fresh's entire line of sugar lip products are usually found on me. Before bed, this is the best, but also during the day for a little pick-me-up.
Marc Jacobs Glow Stick Glistening Illuminator: This gives the perfect amount of glow without being overly sparkly or shiny when applied to the cheekbones, cupid's bow, and nose bridge.
Haircare
drybar Triple Sec 3-in-1: Even on clean hair, this is perfect for an extra added something when I'm falling flat.
Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo: After working out, or if I'm too lazy to wash my hair, this is what I reach for.
Living Proof Restore Mask Treatment: I try to use this at least two or three times a month in my hair, especially in the summer when it's much more dry outside. This leaves my hair feeling weightless and refreshed, and there is a definite noticeable difference when you get out of the shower after using this.
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Primer: Before any heat styling, it's so important to apply protectant to your hair to avoid doing too much damage. This priming spray protects my hair from the heat and locks in smoothness and shine.
Body
Fresh Life: Goodbye to the heavy and musky perfumes of summer, this is my favorite fresh (ha, pun) perfume for spring and summer.
Vaseline Intensive Care Cocoa Radiant Lotion: Even though this is a bit on the thicker side, I use it all year round to leave my skin looking glowy and feeling smooth.
Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish: Especially in the summer, getting off the dead skin is essential to maintaining a happy body. I did a full post about dry-brushing, when done with this exfoliant it's like magic.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Gentle Cleansing Bar: I was never a fan of using bar soap on my body before giving this a try. I try not to use anything too scented on my sensitive skin to avoid any unwanted breakouts or dryness, and this leaves my skin feeling squeaky clean and fresh.