Sephora Spring Sale Must Haves + Discount Codes!

Save for the Nordstrom Anniversary sale, the Sephora Beauty Insider Bonus Event one of my favorite sales of the year! I love to stock up on items that rarely go on sale and makeup can get expensive really quickly. Every time Sephora does a bonus event I like to stock up mainly on my tried and true favorites but I’ll also add a couple items that I’ve had my eye on, sale time is a good time to try new things that you normally wouldn’t spend full price on! Here’s my post from the last Sephora bonus event.

First make sure you’re signed up for the Sephora rewards program here. The sale is tiered so the more you spend the higher level you are and the better discount you get during these events.

Sephora Discount Codes:

Rouge members get 20% off for the entire event from 4/26-5/6 using code HEYROUGE. They have early access through 5/1. On 5/2 VIB members get to take advantage of the sale using HEYVIB for 15% off through 5/6. Beauty Insiders get 10% off from 5/2-5/6 using the code HEYINSIDER.

My Sephora Favorites

Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector Concealer

I keep coming back to this concealer despite the price. I love it for coverage and brightening. It has a slightly sticky formula which allows it to apply very opaque and cover even the most stubborn under eye circles! It comes in 2 tones, I use the lighter one!

Peter Thomas Roth Skin to Die For CC Cream

I’ve talked about this stuff for the past year ALL THE TIME. I’m sure you know all about why I love it by now, but it has proven huge changes in my skin since I started using it! It’s pretty full coverage for a CC cream, but it still feels lightweight. I use the color “Light!”

Too Faced Born This Way Foundation

I love this foundation for days that I need something a little heartier than a CC cream, it goes on so smoothly and blends really well. It also builds really well and comes in a huge range of colors. I use “Almond” which is fair with golden undertones.

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

I don’t even know how many years this has been a favorite of mine for, but I always grab one whenever it’s included in a sale because I use this product daily! In my last Sephora sale post I tried out the Becca setting powder and didn’t realize how much I didn’t like it until I went back to my trusty Laura Mercier setting powder. The difference is like night and day! This stuff isn’t heavy or cakey at all. I’ve also been using lately it to set my eyelids before applying eyeshadow, and my under eye area!

Anastasia Dip Brow Pomade

You’ll need a brush to apply this product but I find it works better than any other eyebrow product I’ve tried! Here’s the brush I use, it’s super affordable and has a built in eyebrow spooly which I absolutely love! I also feel like I have more precision with a pomade than with a pencil, which seems counterintuitive but I can control the amount of product I use as well as exactly where it goes with a brush, plus this product has the perfect shade for my brows! I use the color “Blonde.”

Kat Von D Tattoo Liquid Liner

This is hands down, by far the BEST liquid liner I’ve ever used, and if you know me, you know I’ve had winged liner on since the second I started wearing makeup. It’s my trademark look! I recently tried the new angled brush version of this stuff and I have to say I think I like the regular brush option better. I use the black color called “Trooper.”

Urban Decay Perversion Mascara

This is one of those products that no one knows about, I’ve never heard anyone talk about it but I randomly got a sample of it once and have been hooked ever since. Best mascara ever! I don’t love lash extensions, but I love the look of them! This mascara is the best at mimicking that separated, but thick look that lash extensions provide. Of course it won’t be the same, but I’ve found that this is the closest I’ve gotten to achieving the look and feel of extensions without actually having the real things!

Too Faced Bronzer

The best matte bronzer with no shimmer. Plus it smells like chocolate, they actually use cocoa in the product! Perfect for contouring and a little goes a long way so it lasts forever! I use the color “Chocolate Soleil.”

Nars Blush

I’ve used this blush since 2008 and it’s my holy grail! It’s almost like a highlight and blush in one because of the subtle shimmer. It really adds that sun kissed look to the apples of your cheeks! I found out the hard way that you have to use it sparingly as to not look like a clown because it’s pretty pigmented. The color I am loyal to is called “Orgasm”, it is a peachy pink with a little shimmer, perfect for summer!

Beauty Blender Pro

I honestly feel a little silly for including this in here but then I realized that not everyone understands why they need to spend $20 on this face sponge. This tool applies liquid or powder products flawlessly and is the perfect density once dampened to “bounce” product into the skin, leaving no trace of the applicator unlike traditional brushes which can leave brush strokes. When dampened it doubles in size and absorbs minimal product unlike competitor sponges that you may use dry. I’m not going to lie, it is always hard for me to shell out the cash for this sponge, but when I go back to using other, cheaper tools I end up running back to the beauty blender every time. They last a long time too, so cost per use is actually pretty low! Just make sure you take care of it and wash between each use.

New to me Products

When it comes to products that I’ve never tried before, I’m picking up a couple that I can’t wait to review for you guys! The Becca Backlight Primer, I’ve heard from people is like an Instagram filter for your face! I can’t wait to see if it does what I hope/expect because it sounds amazing. The Drunk Elephant Sukari Babyfacial is another product I’ve heard a ton of people rave about but I haven’t been interested in splurging since I don’t know what to expect. I’ll share my thoughts on my Instagram stories after I’ve used them for a bit!

Thanks for reading! What are you picking up from the sale?

xo

The Scary Truth About Dry Shampoo

Is dry shampoo bad for your hair?

Lately dry shampoo has been a trending subject. There isn’t a reputable hair care brand that doesn’t sell their own version of dry shampoo and lots of bloggers have been jumping on the dry shampoo train and sharing the benefits of not having to wash/style their hair as often due to the magic of this starch and alcohol filled product. I’ve even heard some people brag about going weeks between washes and preaching the benefits of using dry shampoo to make their blowouts last for days. Due to all of this, I too got swept up in the dry shampoo craze and was using it regularly (I wash my hair every 3 days). I noticed my hair health start to visibly decline and that my natural shedding was increasing. I started to research the products I was using regularly and found some interesting information about dry shampoo that I felt compelled to share. There are some scary (and gross) facts surrounding the regular use of dry shampoo and how it in fact can be super detrimental to your scalp health and overall impede the growth of your hair. Although I feel that cutting out the product cold turkey is a bit drastic, I’ve been doing my best to use dry shampoos extremely sparingly. I do think it’s important to be educated about the common ingredients in dry shampoos and learn how to use the product correctly to minimize damage.

Here’s what I found out.

Dry Shampoo Does Not Cleanse Your Scalp

Dry shampoo is commonly formulated with alcohols or starches which are ingredients used to soak up the excess oil in your hair. Often times dry shampoos will also have perfumes used to mask the smell of dirty hair or to give hair a fresher scent. Girl, if your hair smells any type of way it means its been too long since you’ve sudsed up. Although you may feel like since you can’t see the oil anymore that you have cleaner hair after using dry shampoo, all of these harmful ingredients actually train your hair to stop producing the oil necessary to maintain a healthy scalp. Although it could be seen as unsavory to have greasy hair, it is healthier just to wash your strands the traditional way than to add another layer of product onto your hair shaft and scalp. Overall, adding another layer onto your already dirty hair is not a solution, it is a bandaid, and can cause long-term and potentially serious problems for your hair.

Dry Shampoo and Hair Loss

Alcohol based dry shampoo may not leave as much of a deposit as the starchy powdery options, but it is notorious for making hair brittle and weak, if you regularly reach for dry shampoo you may notice your hair growing at a slower rate. This is due to breakage caused by the brittleness that these drying products cause.

Most dry shampoos leave behind a powdery/matte finish. To remove the visible powder you might brush through your hair so it is less visible, while leaving just enough product on your scalp to soak up the oil. Even though you can’t see the product, the dry shampoo left behind on your scalp leaves a layer or buildup that will clog your hair follicles over time and will ultimately impede hair growth, especially if you use dry shampoo on a daily or pretty regular basis. You wouldn’t continue to layer your makeup over and over each day without washing your face, the same goes for the skin on your scalp. Not to mention if you are already cleansing your hair with a shampoo that has silicones or other ingredients that may be left behind on your scalp, this is just another layer of buildup to worry about. Over time you may even start to notice rashes (dermatitis) or flaky patches. Product build-up also causes hair to stick or clump together, this can cause 2-3 times the hair to shed when you brush your hair since they are stuck together.

If you insist on using dry shampoo 2 or more days in a row, make sure you are using a good clarifying shampoo to get rid of the build-up and bacteria in rotation with your regular, daily shampoo.

How to Use Dry Shampoo Correctly

Dry shampoo is meant for the strand of the hair. You shouldn’t be applying it directly to the scalp or root area. When applied as directed, on hair with no dampness and brushed through to remove as much excess as possible, dry shampoo can add a great layer of grit to clean hair to help your curls stay put longer, or give a little volume and texture to your strands. From what I’ve read if you’re a real dry shampoo addict, you should wash your hair every second day to minimize the build-up, aka you probably need to wash your hair MORE if you’re using dry shampoo on the reg. If you’ve paid for a blow out or you have a lot of hair, it can be tempting to try to extend the life of your style for a few extra days, but definitely not at the expense of your long-term hair health. I promise, it’s not worth it.

What To Do Instead Of Using Dry Shampoo

I’m sure you’re wondering how I get away with 2-3 day hair without using a dry shampoo. Well, check out my Instagram feed, do you see a trend? Y’all think I just like to wear a hat for the fashion statement? But really, a hat is one great way to hide the extra oil of second day hair. Sometimes I’ll put my hair up in a messy bun or pony tail, and sometimes I’ll even just wash around my hairline if I’m in a pinch. Overall, if I know I might feel the urge to dry shampoo, I just suck it up and wash my hair, and my hair has been thanking me for it! I have never had more healthy (or long) hair than I do since I’ve cut down on heat styling and dry shampoo.

We all put so much effort into skin care, I think it’s time to share the love with our scalp!

xo

Spring Skincare Routine

I love that you all are as interested in skincare and beauty as I am! I need to start sharing more beauty on the blog because I am always trying new things and experimenting with different products seasonally. I tend to change up my routine every few months as the weather changes, this season as it is getting warmer my skin is finally a little happier than it has been the past few (cold) months. I tend to get super dry during the winter so I use heavier moisturizers and gentler cleansers. The transition to spring is always welcome because my skin feels so much more comfortable in the warmer months, and I love wearing lighter products! I feel like it allows me to wear less makeup during these months too which is such a refreshing change and a welcome break for my skin.

I’m going to break down my routine by product, my day and night routine are very similar and I don’t use a ton of products so this is a routine anyone can get behind!

Makeup Remover

I only use two different makeup removers and I have for years! These are the only products that never really rotate out of my routine. They work well for me and I have no need to change up this step, so without futher ado, here’s where I start my skincare routine!

I always remove my eye-makeup and brows first. Right now I am using the Target brand version of the Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover, but it is literally the exact same product, ingredients and all. I soak a cotton round with product and hold it on my eye for a few seconds to dissolve the makeup and then swipe it away. I try my hardest not to rub because, wrinkles.

I use the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water to remove the rest of my face makeup, and it works like a dream and is incredibly gentle, perfect for sensitive skin. I always go over my face twice to make sure I get as much makeup removed as possible before I cleanse. It makes no sense to use an expensive cleanser on skin that has a layer of foundation still on, you will not get as good of results, I promise. Take the extra time to remove your makeup if you wear it daily, it is worth the extra step for healthier skin.

Facial Cleanser

I have tried so many different cleansers, I am pretty picky about what I use to wash my face! I recently started using the Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser. I need a daily cleanser that will scrub off the day really well since I wear waterproof makeup that can be stubborn at times. This cleanser does such a good job in the evening when I use it with my Clarisonic brush! You can use it with any manual exfoliating brush for the same effect. Speaking of face brushes I’ve been wanting to try the Foreo Luna, I’m planning to buy it this year at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale!

In the mornings, I like to use a super gentle cleanser that won’t strip my skin of moisture but will wash away any bacteria that may have accumulated from my pillow/sheets (gross, I know. It’s a thing though)! I find if I wash and moisturize my face in the morning my makeup goes on better too. I love to use the Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser. You can get it at basically any drugstore, or Ulta. It’s super gentle and won’t strip your skin, or leave it feeling tight and uncomfortable.

Exfoliating Brushes

As mentioned above, I use a Clarisonic Mia brush (linked is the newest version) to cleanse and exfoliate my face every 3-ish days. Not joke, I’ve had this brush since I turned 21. It is SO old and I can’t believe it’s still kickin’! But girl’s shown no sign of slowing down so I plan to use it until it dies because I love the deep clean it gives. Cleansing brushes are so important to remove the build-up of dead skin cells and to encourage cell regeneration by removing the dull surface layer. I also find that I can’t remove every last trace of makeup with just my hands. An exfoliating brush allows for a super deep clean to remove any last trace of remaining products on the skin for the ultimate clean and to allow for maximum product absorption of moisturizers and oils. I haven’t been able to find another brush that offers similar results to the Clarisonic but I have yet to try the Foreo Luna. I have heard great things about it and I would love to replace my super old Clarisonic for a product where I won’t have to continue repurchasing brush head replacements. Plus, can anyone confirm that Clarisonic is struggling as a company these days? I heard they laid off a bunch of people a few years ago and are maybe slowly disappearing, but it’s all hearsay.

Exfoliating Product

Not going to lie I really didn’t see the purpose of this product when I first got it. I tried it a few times but it just didn’t work for me. I realized later on that I wasn’t applying enough product or leaving it on my skin for long enough, and once I got more patient and tried these tactics, this product quickly became a regular in my routine! I love using this gentle exfoliant on days where I want to exchange my Clarisonic brush for a milder exfoliation. Peter Thomas Roth’s FIRMx Peeling Gel is a great product to use for any skin type, and is also fun to use! Not only does the product have ingredients such as pineapple and pomegranate, it also includes enzymes that exfoliate the skin for a smooth complexion without leaving your skin tight and dry, or irritated. It peels off as you rub it in which is also an enjoyable experience. I’ve noticed it reduce the size of my pores, decrease overall dryness, and make my skin more radiant and youthful!

Moisturizer

I just switched from my all time favorite Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream moisturizer to this Tula Aqua Infusion Gel Creme. I was super skeptical, but I had heard great things about Tula products from more than a handful of friends so I figured it was worth a try. I was pleasantly surprised and have switched from my PTR moisturizer to use this one morning and evening! It is a super lightweight formula but still very moisturizing. It gives me a great amount of hydration without feeling heavy at all and it absorbs so fast! I’ve found that my skin has been smoother and makeup goes on easier and less cake-y when I use this moisturizer since it doesn’t even feel like anything is on my skin after I use it! I am obsessed! If you all want to try it out use my coupon code

JULIANNE20

for 20% off!

Self-Tan

I figured I’d share my little secret weapon since I use it weekly and it technically is a skincare item! Tanceuticals CC Color Correct Self Tanning Face Lotion has been a staple in my skincare arsenal for going on three years! I get the “Dark” color and use it on its own or even 50/50 mixed into my moisturizer for the perfect glowy tan all week long! I reapply it every few days or so to maintain. I love this brand because they pride themselves in using good ingredients, plus they don’t seem to leave that weird fake tan smell that other tanning products are well knows for!

Undereye Cream

I got this product as a sample last summer and have been using it ever since, I can’t believe there’s still even product left in the container, but I’m going with it! This Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Power Eye Cream is so amazing because it decreases the look of fine lines, puffiness, dark circles, amongst other things. I find that I look much more awake when I use a vitamin C product under my eyes and this product is 50x more powerful than traditional vitamin C making it super effective! I live for this stuff, and I never thought I’d be one to have to use an eye cream daily, but I can’t go a day without this stuff!

Acne Products

Although I have pesky blackheads in my T-zone, I don’t get acne very regularly. I will get sporadic breakouts here and there, but nothing super unmanageable. These Peter Thomas Roth Max Complexion Pads have salicylic acid and glycolic acid to clarify the skin and help combat visible blackheads or the occasional breakout. I like to swipe a pad over my face when I feel like my skin is acting up (once every couple weeks for a few days). They help to tighten and clarify skin while providing a subtle exfoliation with the texture on the pads. They also smell like peach bellini!

This Neutrogena Red & Blue Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment is a fun tool that I never thought would actually work (I am quite pessimistic when it comes to gimmicky stuff). I found myself so desperate when I got a breakout before an important networking event last summer that I was willing to try anything to get rid of the nasty blemish. I was shocked after the first time I used this and saw VISIBLE results. I guess the red and blue lights kill bacteria and reduce inflammation in order to target and treat a breakout effectively and quickly. I use this thing regularly when I get a breakout and it really helps to make it go away faster than anything else I’ve tried!

If you made it this far, I LOVE YOU! Thank you for reading! I hope you were able to gain a little bit of information of some awesome products and how I am able to take care of my skin in the Springtime. Comment below what your favorite skincare product is!

xo

My Sephora Beauty Favorites: Beauty Insider Event!

We’ll, I guess the Sephora gods really love us this year because we were given another amazing opportunity to shop all of our Sephora favorites at discounted prices! If you had plans to do any holiday shopping at Sephora, now is the time to stock up on items that rarely ever go on sale. I usually stock up on my skincare items and a couple fun items I’ve been wanting to try.

I rounded up some of my current beauty favorites in this shop-able image (click on each image to shop), as well as dates, deets and discount codes about this most recent event. Keep scrolling to see more!

See my last Sephora favorites post here!

My Sephora Favorites:

Okay, now for some key details. First you must be a Sephora Beauty Insider to take advantage of the discount. Click here to sign up, it’s free and super quick. Depending on how much you spend you will earn tiers of benefits from Sephora’s rewards program. The higher the tier the better the benefits. You also earn points as you shop which can be redeemed for free sample products, so cool!

Important Event Dates:

Nov 2-5 Rouge level Beauty Insiders get to shop with 20% off using code ROUGEBONUS

Nov 9-12 VIB members will receive access to shop at 20% off with code VIBBONUS

Nov 16–19 Any level Beauty Insider Members will be able to shop at 15% off with code BIBONUS

Leave me a comment down below on what items you are buying in this Holiday event! Happy Shopping!

How I Maintain My Healthy Hair

I’ve been wanting to do a haircare routine on here for a long time! I’m including my favorite hair products that I use weekly, as well as some new products that I’ve recently fallen in love with, so stay tuned to hear about how I keep my hair shiny, and manageable!

*Although this post is not sponsored, some of the products mentioned were gifted to me by Kenra, all opinions are my own*

My Current Hair Situation

Right now the majority of my hair is my natural, non-chemical treated hair with the exception of a little residual blonde that’s slowly growing out but still prevalent on the very ends of my hair. I heat style my hair 4-5 times a week and I wash my hair every 2-3 days and in between if I need to use a dry shampoo, THIS one is the one I’ll use, although I try to stay away from dry shampoos as much as possible.

The Scary Truth About Dry Shampoo

Hair Products I Love

On a regular day I like to use a volumizing or moisturizing shampoo that is pretty mild and not super heavy on the sulfates. I rotate between a few brands including Joico and Wella, but currently I’m using this Kenra Volumizing Shampoo and conditoner. Once a week I use the new Kenra Deep Detox Scrub to really get my hair squeaky clean and remove any residue of product build-up or pollutants that have collected on my hair. This clarifying shampoo smells so amazing and the activated charcoal really scrubs your hair cleaner than it’s ever been. It’s my new favorite hair product! I like to use the Detox & Deflect Conditioner after because it is extra hydrating and has the diamond dust to further protect hair from outside pollutants. I always look forward to using these two powerhouse products because after my hair is dry and styled it is SO shiny, soft, silky and I can be confident that it’s protected for the rest of the week! It seriously feels like salon fresh hair. That’s why I want to share it with you all! I am obsessed!

Styling Products I Love

To dry my hair I love using the Kenra Blowdry Spray. This product works magic for cutting down drying time and smells sooo good! Sometimes I spritz it on my hair when it’s already dry to add a little shine (and I love how my hair smells when I use it). I always dry my hair on the warm, not hot setting as to minimize damage and since I’m using the Blow Dry Spray my time is cut down significantly anyway, so I can turn the temp down on my hairdryer and not worry about it being too time consuming.

This is the hair dryer I use, it has a Ferarri engine, no joke! And this is my favorite round brush for the perfect, voluminous blow-out. This is the hair straightener I use to curl my hair, that is not a typo… I do prefer to use a flat iron to create curls, I feel like they hold much longer and create more of a consistent curl. Plus it’s easier for me than using a curling wand.

Hair Tools I Love

Lately I’ve been curling my hair pretty much every day, and since my hair is so fine and super shiny/silky after using the detox products, I like to spritz a little dry shampoo onto my hair (not at the root, just mid to ends) in order to give it a little more texture and help the curls stick better. Do this very sparingly, if you use too much your hair will become unmanageable in the worst way.

I like to use this drugstore hairspray, but since I’ve been using this new Kenra line of products I’ve also been trying out the Diamond Deflect Hairspray, and so far it’s pretty awesome! It’s a medium, flexible hold like my drugstore fav, and has an amazing scent which is a must for me when it comes to hair products. Also the diamond dust in the spray adds another layer of protection onto my hair!

Thanks for reading! Make sure to let me know if you try out any of these products and what you think!

xo

Wait! Don’t forget to save this post on Pinterest, pin this image:

Sephora Favorites (plus discount codes)

In case you haven't heard from a million other bloggers, Sephora is having an amazing customer appreciation event for their Beauty Insiders! It is a tiered event so the discount varies depending on your account level, so read on for more details, or just click HERE to head over and shop!

**Scroll to the bottom of the post to see my current top Sephora picks!**

Tell me more, who gets to shop early?!

Starting on August 24th VIB Rouge members get access to all of their Sephora beauty picks at 20% off using the code "YESROUGE" one week earlier than any other VIB members. You can see on their website what level you are when you log in to your account. 

I'm not VIB Rouge, when can I shop the sale?

If you are not a VIB Rouge but you are still a VIB you can shop a week later starting the 30th of August, for 15% off using code "YESVIB"! If you aren't a VIB yet, make sure you sign up so you can still enjoy 10% off during the sale using code "YESINSIDER" to get these awesome benefits, and bookmark this post for next time too! 

Sephora VIB Event Discount Codes

VIB Rouge get 20% off with "YESROUGE"

VIB members 15% off with "YESVIB"

Beauty Insiders 10% off with "YESINSIDER"

Shop all my Sephora VIB picks here!

Hover over each item and click to shop! Pin this shop-able image on Pinterest! Just hover over the image and click on the Pinterest icon. 

Anniversary Sale Beauty Purchases!

Ok so I definitely went a little nuts with the beauty category in this years Anniversary Sale. I don't regret it at all though since it's been a long while since I've splurged on some good skincare and cosmetics! I rounded up all of my purchases and some extras that I use year-round (I didn't buy some stuff I already have since I've already spent too much $$). I am especially excited for the Iluminage "Precise Touch" hair remover tool, as well as the BeautyBio "GloPro" microneedling roller. They're both splurges but I'll use them forever and I might as well get them on sale since they never go on sale the rest of the year! I'm also grabbing a couple extra beauty kits like the Charlotte Tilbury sets so I can use them as Christmas gifts before everything goes up to full price. Now's the time to shop! 

If you haven't seem my other Nordstrom Anniversary Sale favorites, check them out here:

"Top Boots and Booties"

"Cozy Home Decor Favorites"

Hover over each image and click to shop!

1. Bobbi Brown Palette $98 ($380 value) // 2. Evian Set $18 ($33 value) // 3. Mirror and Compact $52 ($78 value) // 4. Charlotte Tilbury Set $60 ($90 value) // 5. GloPro $169 ($269 value) // 6. Dry Bar Set $52 ($75 value) // 7. Iluminage Precise Touch $164 ($245 value) // 8. Beauty Blender Set $35 ($60 value) // 9. Kiehl's Lotion $52 ($75 value) // 10. Clinique Moisture Surge Set $99 ($154 value)

I am also picking up the Slip Silk Pillowcase Set another item I've been wanting for FOREVER that is in the sale so I couldn't pass it up! 

I'm so excited to see what else gets re-stocked for the public access sale. I've got a couple more things that I've been eyeing, hoping for them to come back around since they sold out so fast during early access. I hope you all get everything on your Nordstrom wish list, happy shopping!  

xo

VII Code Oxygen Eye Masks: Review

Lately I've been trying my hardest to invest more thought and effort into my skincare routine. You all may have noticed this if you watch my Instagram stories that I've been incorporating more beauty tips as I've been trying new products. I love sharing the results with you all and also hearing what you all love too!

I've noticed over the past year since having my baby that my skin has changed drastically and not necessarily for the better. It must be a combination of lost sleep, lack of hydration (I literally forget to drink water since I'm so busy), hormones, and honestly some days I'm just too exhausted to even think about just washing my face. New mom problems, right? So recently I was contacted by VII Code to try out their Oxygen Eye Masks which are like nothing I've ever used before. I did a little research before giving them a try but overall they ticked all the boxes for me in terms of the results they offered so I figured it couldn't hurt to try something new and fun! 

It's been SO hot here in Portland lately, so I decided to pop the box in the fridge during the time I was using the masks so they could be extra cooling and refreshing when I put them on!  The product can be left on the area for up to 8 hours and is made to be worn overnight, you don't even need to think about it, just peel, stick, then sleep! If you're a mom or have a busy lifestyle, these eye masks are totally game changing when it comes to skincare you don't need to think about, overnight skincare is genius! 

My first concern when I heard that they were a gel product was that wearing them for hours on end the gel would not stay put. I was pleasantly surprised to see and feel that this was not the case! The product is incorporated into a sticky pad that has a strong papery side that faces out and the gel sticks on your face and stays put for as long as you wear them! I have heard that you can also use a sleeping mask on top of the product if you are worried about them moving, but they truly stick on really well! I never had an issue when I used them at night and I move around a lot. 

Ok now on to the good part, my results! Suggested use is 2-3 times per week and I used them every other day for about two weeks (each pack comes with 6 masks). After the first use I noticed a drastic reduction in the puffiness under my eyes, but the most noticeable improvement was the texture of my skin. My under eye area has never felt more hydrated and smooth!  After a week of use the area was visibly brighter and I noticed that is was not only easier to apply makeup on my under eyes, but my concealer and foundation stayed put and didn't settle into the fine lines under my eyes! This was a huge win in my book! I didn't even realize how annoying those fine lines were until I didn't have to deal with my makeup gathering into them every single day. 

Overall I have to say I loved using these eye masks! I'm excited to integrate them into my regular routine and continue to benefit from the results. I still can't believe I'm in my late 20's and this is the first time I'm using an eye mask, but hey, better late than never! Especially with skincare. If you want to try them out as well, click HERE as always, please leave me any questions you may have in the comments. I'd also love to hear if you've tried VII Code's products before and what you think! 

As always, thanks for reading!

xo

*This review is sponsored by VII Code but all opinions are my own, I have included links to the product that may earn me a very small commission, but also show me what kinds of content you all are loving so I appreciate you using them when you try out my recommendations!*

Comparing Kopari Coconut Deodorant to Three Other Natural Brands!

What is all this hype about natural deodorant? Is aluminum in deodorant as bad as people claim? Does natural deodorant really work? These are all questions that I had prior to switching over from regular antiperspirant/deodorant to a natural brand. Yes, I switched for good and I am here to tell you why! 

Aluminum in Deodorant

As many of you have probably heard, antiperspirants (the deodorant that is supposed to control how much you sweat) contain aluminum. GASP. I know right?! It sounds so scary, and it sounds even scarier when your friends start gossiping about how you can, and WILL get breast cancer from applying an aluminum product on your armpits. The truth is, there is no actual conclusive evidence that this is actually the case. So if you decide to stick with your regular deodorant even after reading this post, I will not make you feel bad or warn you about cancer, although I feel obligated to let you know that if you have kidney disease you may want to consult with a physician before using an aluminum product, as your deodorant label will also ask you to do. 

Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Deodorant

SO I recently had a baby. When I was pregnant I became more conscious as to what I was putting in and on my body for fear of it absorbing into me and harming my baby (pretty unlikely in most cases, but I'm an anxious individual). I had heard the rumors about aluminum and immediately switched to the first natural deodorant I could grab off of the shelves at the supermarket. I figured I'd just have to deal with being the smelly kid on the block until after I had my little one and was all done breast feeding. As I did more research on Aluminum, I decided that even if I didn’t mind it on my own skin, I didn’t feel super comfortable about my little on ingesting it since it was so close to her face while she fed.

Making The Switch to Natural Deodorant!

I began using natural deodorant, and as I used it more and more I began to realize, I really liked it! I went on the journey to find my favorite brand and scent and I tried a few along the way and thought it would be fun to share my discoveries so you all can skip the trial and error part and just buy the good stuff. 

I want to preface this with, natural deodorant is not for everyone. It is definitely a lighter product and won’t block your sweat glands as that is the job of the aluminum in a standard antiperspirant, and these natural choices don't include that ingredient. You may tend to feel wetter in your pits after a work out or a brisk walk, maybe more so than you would have had you used one of the non-natural options. Another thing to remember is that many regular (non-natural) deodorants are anti-bacterial, this is what makes you smell nice and pretty all day long as that lovely BO smell is the combination of sweat mixing with the bacteria on your skin, deodorants anti-bacterial qualities deter this from happening. Now, a few natural deodorants really do a bad job at keeping the smelliness at bay. But to my surprise, most actually keep up with their non-natural counterparts really well, even without anti-bacterial ingredients. I have to say by the end of some really strenuous days I may have noticed a very faint smell to the armpit region, but nothing overwhelming and never enough for anyone else to detect. The essential oil in many natural deodorants do a fantastic job of masking any unwarranted scent that you may produce throughout the day that may otherwise send your friends running in the opposite direction when you enter the room. I love the smell of natural scented products versus the strange, fake, chemically scents of non-natural ones. I think they smell almost perfume-y and I find that the scent is much lighter but lasts much longer, this paired with how light they feel on my skin is the reasons why I love natural deodorant and won't be switching back to the traditional stuff, even when I'm all done breastfeeding! 

Natural Deodorant Detoxing

With most people, the longer you use a natural deodorant the more your body will become accustomed to the product. I have friends who’ve experienced rashes or unusually strong armpit odor upon the initial switch from regular deodorant to natural. Often this goes away once the “detox” period has ended. This is the first week or so (it can even last up to a month) after switching to a natural product, you may be so smelly that you have doubts. I promise your body will start to regulate as you get used to the natural product and your body gets rid of all of the chemicals left behind from your old deodorant. Make sure you’re cleansing regularly, drinking lots of water and even taking hot baths to help open up your pores. Detoxing from deodorant is totally a real thing! Stick it out for the 4 weeks and it will get better, you just need to give your body time to adjust.

Natural Deodorant Review

KOPARI

COCONUT DEODORANT

So far I'm loving the coconut Kopari deodorant! The scent is divine, the perfect mix of subtle coconut and vanilla. Although I don't have sensitive skin some deodorants tend to give me a rash or break my out when I use them. This didn't happen with the Kopari one. I'm super impressed so far, and I feel like the price is fair for what you get! [I have noticed that deodorants with coconut oil tend to be the best for sensitive skin or skin that is prone to breakouts from natural deodorants]. Another plus from this deodorant is that is goes on super smooth, and the formula is clear, I have noticed ZERO transfer on clothing, even before the product has dried. In my opinion this deodorant is a must try!

LAVANILA

PURE VANILLA, VANILLA COCONUT, & VANILLA BLACKBERRY  

I recently tried a three set gift-box so I could test out a few scents of this brand's deodorants. I've heard so much about LaVanila since they hit Sephora and became super popular! Honestly, I was not super impressed. The product was effective from a deodorant standpoint, it worked as well as any other deodorant. I did notice white transfer on my clothing, even after letting the product dry before putting my clothes on. The product dries out in the packaging, even if it is closed tightly, if you stop using it for more than a couple days. Also, the scent is definitely not my favorite. I did like the blackberry vanilla best, but the other two ("pure vanilla," and "vanilla coconut") we're not at all what I wanted to smell like. I almost couldn't even stand the smell. I find this interesting as I know many people who've tried and love the vanilla scent (I think this was their OG scent). Not only did I dislike the scent, I noticed that the next day the product has broken out the area that I had applied it to, kind of like a rash. No good. I did try it out a few more times just to make sure it wasn't for me, and I can say for sure that La Vanila was not for me. 

SCHMIDT'S

GERANIUM FLOWER

The scent is amazing! I can't remember where I heard about Schmidt's deodorant, it may have been another bloggers Instagram stories or something of the sort. But I'm glad I discovered them! They are also a Portland company and I love to support local companies! The scent has totally staying power, it lasted all day, and I loved that it smelled more like a perfume than that weird deodorant smell. 5 stars for that! The white transfer is minimal to none as long as you let the product dry before you put your clothes on. UPDATE: after using this for an extended period, I have noticed that white transfer has been a little bit of an issue, nothing too crazy, but more than I would prefer. I did notice that the rose scent left a slight discoloration on clothing as the stick seems to have some added color (it is a light brown color) the geranium scent is definitely my favorite from the brand for sure!

JASON

LAVENDER

It had been a while since I tried out the Jason brand deodorant, and after testing it out again for this blog post,  I can remember why I hadn't repurchased it. The formulation is way too wet. I don't have 5 minutes to wait for my deodorant to dry before I get dressed. The lavender scent is nice, it smells like essential oils, not artificial at all, but it doesn't last very long and it almost seems as though the deodorant is completely non-effective.  Overall, not my favorite, too wet and doesn't work well. I do love the scent, just wish it lasted longer. 

I hope this post helped to answer any questions you may have had about these three natural deodorants! If there is another type of deodorant you’d like me to review, leave it in the comments below! I love trying out new products.

My Makeup Routine: Products I'm Currently Loving!

I posted this image on Instagram and got an overwhelming response of people wanting me to post a detailed blog post of the items I use on a daily basis! So here it is, my daily makeup routine! Click HERE to skip the blog post and see my makeup favs in collage form. I am by no means a professional makeup artist, but I am a licensed esthetician with some light training in makeup application. Makeup is more of just a personal hobby for me, and I have lots of fun playing around with looks on myself! Keep reading to see what I use and what I love about each product! 

FACE PRIMER:

This Smashbox primer is my all time favorite primer, I have some very large and visible pores on my cheeks as well as fine lines on my forehead and this stuff really is the best primer I've found that actually makes my face looks flawless, I just put it on my T-zone area and top of my cheeks.

I've also been trying out this primer, and loving it as well! It seems to work pretty well, and has a really beautiful, subtle scent to it. 

FOUNDATION:

I'm used to only be a high-end foundation kinda gal, but lately I've been all about the affordable, drugstore products and foundation is no exception! I've found a couple of amazing formulations that are comparable to some expensive designer brands I've used in the past. I have a whole post here from last year reviewing my favorite daily foundation, it's from L'Oreal and I still use it daily!

Another even more affordable [believe it or not] foundation I'm loving for days when I don't need as high coverage is this one right here. No joke, this stuff feels as luxurious as Georgio Armani, although it definitely is quite sheer, it is also very buildable which I love! Nothing better than a versatile foundation. 

A new CC cream I've recently started using on days where I really don't feel like wearing makeup but also don't want to scare people when I leave the house is this stuff! It has a built in serum with anti-aging qualities, it goes on so silky smooth and feels like your wearing nothing, but also has amazing coverage for a CC cream. It's a little pricey but comes with a lot of product in the bottle and a little goes a long way! I've applied it with my fingers, a brush, or a sponge and they all work since it is more of a moisturizer than a foundation. I love the versatility of this stuff! 

CONCEALER:

So, like every other female who's tried makeup, I could go on all day about how amazing this Tarte concealer is, and although I believe you should DEFNITELY try it if you haven't, everyone's heard about it a million times. What if I told you there's a comparable Colourpop concealer here available for a fraction of the price and works just as well [some may argue it's ever BETTER] than Shapetape?! Not lyin' pick this stuff up ASAP. Of course I still use [and LOVE] Shapetape, but as a daily product the affordable dupe wins out most mornings. 

SETTING POWDER:

Another duo of products I've used for years, and wholeheartedly swear by. I'll start with this illuminating under eye powder. Nothing seems to brighten up my under eye area better than this stuff, and it really fights the creasing effect that can happen after concealing if you forget to set or use the wrong product to set. This one is flawless for me every day! It also hasn't proven to have a flashback effect when I take photographs (key for a blogger) and doesn't look cake-y like some white/luminous powders can.

I also love to use it's big sister to set my face makeup. This powder is one I always go back to. Every time I try to branch out and try something new, I come RUNNING back to my tried and true, so I've given up even trying anything new anymore haha! 

BRONZER/CONTOUR:

Ok, so there are contour products out there that you can purchase, but did you know that the term "contour" is actually referring to a method of application and not an actual product itself? You can use ANYTHING. YOU. WANT. to contour your face with! I have a few bronzers that I love to use to contour with and I switch between them depending on how I feel on any given day and they range from designer, high-end all the way down to the most affordable drugstore brand and I love them all equally! I use this one for special occasions, it is a little pricey, but a little goes a long way, it smells AMAZING, and has staying power for all day events or long date nights!

This one is my daily go-to if I'm just working or running around town with friends or doing errands or something. Feels weightless on the skin and has a really pretty matte and flawless/seamless finish. It is a powder but it feels almost like a cream on the skin, very decadent! I reach for it probably the most out of all of my bronzers.

The most recent [and most affordable] bronzer I've been trying out is this one right here! It is in a stick form which I know is pretty common for contour products these days, and I know I'm probably just late to the trend but it is the first I've tried of it's kind and I'm obsessed! It is so easy to use, isn't orange-y or shimmery at all and best of all it doesn't break the bank, it is so affordable! Love!

BLUSH:

If you follow me on my other social media channels, you've heard me rave about this stuff, it's a new addition to my collection, but I have been using it on the daily! It has a very finely milled shimmer to it, which I don't normally gravitate to shimmery face products, but this one was formulated so beautifully I actually really love it! It gives off a subtle hint of glowiness, which makes you the perfect shade of sun-kissed and it couldn't work better on my skin tone!

An all time forever favorite of mine is this one, which I know is also a cult favorite so I don't need to say much about it, but this stuff looks beautiful on every person I know who has tried it. I think I'll just leave it at that! 

HIGHLIGHT:

You all know about this one here [which is a staple for me], but can we pause and talk about this one from Colourpop that's only 8 freaking dollars?! YES. 8. DOLLARS. And it is amazing! Super finely milled, not glittery at all, but absolutely show stopping, while still applying seamlessly and smoothly! I could not love it more. I you have no money like me, stop by Colourpop and grab it right now. Plus it's vegan and cruelty free! Can't beat that.

LIPS:

This color will always be my tried and true. I think I wore it every single day in 2016 and I still return to it when I need the perfect subtle pink-y nude lip.

Another lippie that I love that is still a pink-y nude, with a little more tan in it is this one right here, it goes on SO smooth and feels very moisturizing!

This high-end one is vegan/cruelty free and an absolutely stunning formulation. So creamy and beautiful, feels extra lux, and looks amazing. The perfect nude lip! Can you tell what color I like my lips to be yet? LOL

LIP TREATMENTS:

I'll just list the ones I'm currently loving since they are all amazing and they all moisturize my lips really well:

Lanolips

Rose Salve

Dr. Bronner's in "Naked"

Korres in "Jasmine"

EYE Products: 

MAC will always be my true love for shadows, this little palette is perfect if you're just starting out and want a nice range of shades that are easy to work with! I love this from MAC as an eye primer, it works better than a standard eye primer which tends to crease on me midday. It also does a great job of hiding veins or any discoloring you may have on your lids. Gives you a great blank slate to work with for applying shadows over!

If you know me, you know I love a good winged liner! My go to liquid liner is always going to be this one, so easy to apply and get a really sharp wing with, which is so key! 

I've also been trying out this one recently, love the formulation and seems like it lasts pretty well, so far so good! 

As far as mascaras go, I'm a HUGE fan of this stuff, I feel like every female on the planet has tried it and loved it at some point in their life! Another one by the same brand that is definitely worth trying out, is this one. It sure seems like they figured out the secret to making BOMB mascaras, because they keep coming out with new FIRE formulations! 

I recently got a sample of this one by It Cosmetics, and I think I have a new favorite. I hate spending a ton of money on mascara so I don't tend to branch out often, but since it was a free sample I thought, what the heck?! Well, now I'm addicted and going to have to re-purchase once my little baby sized sample runs out because this product is amazing. It doesn't clump which is a huge issue that I seem to have with every other mascara, because of it's non-clumpiness it goes on super smoothly and separates and lengthens in just one coat [of course I always do more, because I'm extra like that]. Overall, amazing product. 

BROW Products:

I feel weird admitting this considering how much everyone seems to be obsessed with eyebrows over the past couple years, but I am so low maintenance with my brows, I have only actually ever used one product... I guess I am just lucky it is the first product I tried on my brows and it is the only one I've felt I ever needed?! I say yes. A little goes a LONG way with this little thing, I think I've had the same pot for over a year and I'm just needing to re-purchase. I do my brows every day so it has really lasted a long time! I love the color blonde since it is not too warm but also not too ashy, perfect for my light brunette hair and fait skin. I don't like to be overpowered by a super strong brow and I love how with this stuff it is easy to control the level of intensity you're going for. 

SETTING SPRAY:

Soooo I'm not sure this stuff is even made to be a setting spray, but that's what I use it for [amongst many other things as well] and it is one of my holy grail items! I even keep one in my bag for when I go hiking in the summer as a mid hike cool down spritz, and it is like heaven in a bottle and for only like $7?! You can't beat that, friends. I think I have at least three bottles at any given time all over my house, in my car, in my bag, etc. I am addicted to this stuff!

When I need something a little more hard core, I choose this one. Although I'll always love my Mario Badescu, it doesn't always hold up for those late nights, or long events. Urban Decay always comes in clutch, it's just not as practical for daily use! I'll always have both on hand though!  

HONORABLE MENTION:

No face sponge compares to this one, and I won't let you try to convince me otherwise. It seems expensive for what it is if you haven't used it yet. You will never understand or be able to justify it until you actually get your hands [and face] on it. I promise you once you do, your makeup game will be forever changed. Make sure you use it damp, and make sure you keep it cleaned after each use. You can use it for foundation, concealer, powder, cream bronzer, it basically pays for itself with how versatile it is! 

Whew that was a doozy! Kudos to you if you made it through to the end! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions about anything I may have missed, or further specifics about any of the products I mentioned. If you're curious about a different product that I didn't mention let me know below, you never know I might be willing to do a "Try it out Tuesday" review post on some new stuff! I always love trying new makeup. 

As always, thanks for reading!

xo

My Summer Skincare Routine

I'll be the first to admit that it is hard for me to stick to an actual routine when it comes to my skin/hair/makeup/anything really. I am always wanting to try the new products, or get sent something that is intriguing that I need to try out. Since I've been pregnant, I've noticed a change in my skin, and if I am not super consistent with my skincare, I get breakouts and uneven texture which isn't fun at all. As I've picked up a sort of "routine" over the past months, my skin has never looked better and I'm actually enjoying having a consistent routine to fall back on. 

Check out My Spring Skincare Routine too!

To wash my face in the morning, I've been using this face wash by First Aid Beauty, it is amazing and super gentle on my sensitive skin. I've always been prone to redness and dry skin after using a soapy face wash but since this one doesn't foam up as much, it feels much more comfortable to use. It is made for all skin types though so anyone can use it! It does a really great job of pulling out impurities and unclogging pores. There are also no parabens, sulphates, or phthalates and is free of artificial colors and fragrances so you don't have to worry about putting anything weird or harmful on your skin. It is gentle enough to use daily, which I do every morning! I apply it with my fingers and massage for a minute or so and then rinse off.

For a long time I was using this Ole Henriksen moisturizer and I really loved it, but it felt a little to heavy for summer so I decided to go back to a staple that I've been using for going on 8 years now! Obviously Clinique is so well known and established as a brand, they've been around forever and have such a great reputation, and for good reason too! This moisturizer is amazing and leaves my skin feeling so soft and perfectly hydrated. It is technically formulated for combination to oily skin so if you have dry skin this stuff may not work well for you. If you have sensitive skin like I do, the gel formulation makes it so perfectly lightweight it feels like nothing is even on your skin. If you are on the drier side, this Clinique moisturizer is a great similar product (although it is not the same gel formulation).

In the evening I find it important to take the extra step to make suer my face is super clean and there are no traces of makeup on my skin before I go to bed. I've been using the same makeup removal technique every night and it has been working really well for me. The first product I use is this Neutrogena eye makeup remover. It has aloe and cucumber extracts that really soothe the skin and it is oil free but it removes even the toughest eye makeup gently. It's so affordable too, I always go back to this stuff, it's definitely one of those holy grail items that I'll use forever! 

Following the eye makeup removal I use this micellar water. I feel like micellar waters have become somewhat of a phenomenon over the past couple years. I am SO glad their popularity has risen and allowed me to discover how amazing the products are! I honestly can't seem to tell much difference in quality between brands but I keep going back to this particular one, so I must like it better, who knows? I hate to admit it but I used to sometimes just use my eye makeup remover and then this product and go to bed without using a cleanser... but it really works that well! I don't think I'd recommend doing that on a nightly basis but every once and a while we all get a little lazy, right? Such a simple product but for the price you NEED to pick it up if you haven't tried it yet!  

In the evenings I use a different cleanser on my skin since I also use this facial cleansing brush which can be really harsh if you use the wrong cleanser. But I LOVE using it since it gets everything off and leaves skin so soft and glowy. Many people say to only use it a few times a week but I've been using it nightly and as long as you use the correct product with it, it will cause no problems for your skin. It's best to use a non-foaming product that is non-drying since the brush really exfoliates off all the dead skin and dirt on your face. I love this cleanser to use with my face brush. It is actually made to be used on dry skin or wet skin and can be simply wiped off with a wash cloth if you want to skip moisturizing, as it is a two step product. I prefer to use it with my brush and then rinse it all off and apply my Clinique moisturizer. It's all about what you prefer though. I love this product since it feels super gentle, and leaves my skin feeling balanced and refreshed, no dryness or tightness which I can be prone to after using a facial cleansing brush. 

Another affordable product that deserves an honorable mention is this facial mist. It is super affordable, and although I don't use it every day it has been an amazing addition to my summer skincare products. I love this stuff to refresh during the day, I'll throw it in the fridge when I'm at home and it is such a nice cool treat to use. I also will take it with my when I'm running errands or out and about and it feels so luxurious to use when you need a quick skin refresh. I love it so much, I had to mention it even though it's not an actual part of my routine!

Alright, there you have it! That's my super simple skincare routine. Obviously I will always update you all if I discover a new product that I am loving and I'm sure eventually I'll swap out some of these for new favorites, but for the meantime these are the products I swear by to keep my skin perfect and balanced! Let me know if you've tried any of these and which ones you love!

Also just a reminder, if you do decide to shop these products, make sure you use the links and images in my posts! It takes a significant amount of time and effort to create these links and images to make it easy for you to shop my posts, and I do receive a small commission if you do. Blogging is my current job and livelihood (I'm currently blogging 30+ hours a week) so I want to be as honest and open with everyone who takes the time to read my blog. I really appreciate you all  more than you'll ever know! Thank you for the support, and I can't wait to grow my content and continue to improve thanks to each and every one of you.

xo

L'Oreal Infallible Pro-Glow Foundation Review

When it comes to drug store foundation, I have not had good luck. I hadn't purchased a drugstore foundation for over a year when I started hearing about this particular product, and decided it was worth a try. A few people had told me that it wore similarly to a high-end foundation that I'd been using and loving for some time. Honestly, I had very low expectations and I decided to try it on a day off, just in case it failed as I thought it would. Boy was I absolutely WRONG. L’Oreal’s Infallible Pro-Glow foundation was a pleasant discovery, and I am bummed I didn't try it sooner! I know it's been out for over a year now, but I still thought it warranted a review since it worked so much better than I imagined it would. 

My Simple Skincare Routine

My skin is normal to oily. I have t-zone oily areas (forehead, nose, and chin) and the rest of my face is generally normal (depending on the time of year). I usually gravitate toward a matte foundation but recently have been loving a little bit more of a luminous and natural look. The high-end foundation I had discovered was working really well for me, but I was really just over the $60 price tag and ready to find a new more affordable option. I did some research and found the L'Oreal Infallible Pro-glow foundation, heard lots of good things from lots of good people and decided to give it a try, and at the cool price of $12.99 a pop, it wouldn't hurt the bank too much if it ended up being a total flop. 

Here are the claims: 

-24 hour wear with a hydrating glow

- Lightweight and creamy, goes on smooth with a glow that lasts

- Medium coverage that hides imperfections

- Ideal for normal to dry skin

Consistency Of The Product

This foundation feels like it would be too thin on first application, but it actually covers really well for the consistency straight out of the tube. It is definitely runny and you can hear it in the tube when it is shaken. I did like the consistency for ease of application, just be careful how much you squeeze out at a time because it will run!

Application

I picked up the shade 202 Creamy Natural, which was the perfect shade for my fair skin with red undertones. I applied the foundation using a damp beauty blender, this stuff is very light feeling, but really stays where it is put. It goes on extremely smoothly, and does not settle into pores or fine lines. The foundation claims to be a "medium coverage" which seems correct since I only needed one layer and I only used setting powder under my eyes for brightening. A+ in this category because normally I set with powder all over my face and then follow up around lunch time with round two of powder, but this foundation gave me a solid work day with no powder the whole time! Highly impressed. 

Texture And Coverage

I was definitely hesitant on this foundation for the sole reason that it had glow in the name. Usually this means I end up looking like a greasy disco ball half way through my day. With this foundation it is less of a glow and more a lit from within effect, luminous and dewy but not shiny or shimmery, thank goodness. Overall this "glow" is very natural and subtle. I’d say coverage is medium and hides imperfections decently but I still like to use a concealer on blemishes or uneven skintones.

Final thoughts

Overall, I am very impressed with the formulation of this foundation! It is so natural and lightweight, yet covers everything that needs to be covered without feeling cakey or looking super obvious. It is a "your skin but better" foundation, and I'd highly suggest picking it up and giving it a try! 

My Makeup Routine: Products I'm Currently Loving!

I linked this product from a few different retailers, depending on where you like to shop, click the images in the carousel below!

Let me know down below your thoughts if you've tried it, if not, I'd love to hear about your favorite drugstore foundation! 

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!

xo

Summer Makeup Favorites

Hello, again! This is a post I've been wanting to do for a long time, I just knew it would be slightly time consuming and long but I finally found the time, so here it is! 

I've been so excited to discover some really great cosmetics over the past couple months. It has taken me a long time to perfect my daily routine, and find a combination of products that work well for me in terms of making my skin look great on a day to day basis as well as long-term. I've been branching out to use brands that I've never used before, and combining them with holy grail items that have been in my collection for years! These are just a few of the products I've been obsessed with lately. I'm only including my top favs, obviously I'm leaving out some of my daily items only because I don't consider them holy grail items, and I switch them out on a regular basis (eyeliner, shadows, blush, etc.) 

To start with I'd like to highlight (no pun intended) Becca cosmetics. Obviously Becca has become a cult favorite very rapidly over the past year and of course I can't resist a trend so I gave it to a try to see if their products lived up to the massive hype surrounding them. I started of with their most popular highlight Shimmering Skin Perfector in none other than Champagne Pop. This creamy powder gives a peachy warm "glow from within" affect, and is formulated without parabens, no complaints there! It is a powder but applies as if it were a cream, leaving a very natural glowy look. I have to say this product more than lives up to it's major popularity. I was advised to go with a different color due to my warm undertones, but Champagne Pop works great for my skin tone and I haven't met a person yet who's tried it and not loved it! 

On to another Becca product, this one was purchased by total accident but quickly became a staple in my daily routine! I went into Sephora originally to purchase the Becca Undereye Brightening Corrector, and somehow got this instead. Luckily, it ended up becoming a favorite and a product I'll be re-purchasing over and over, I'm sure. The Becca Ultimate Coverage Concealing Creme is a thick consistency, heavy coverage concealer, that brightens as well as conceals. I feel it is best used only on the under eyes as it can look really cake-y if you aren't careful, but the coverage is the best of any concealer I've ever used and we all know ain't nobody got time for dark circles, I sure don't. Becca definitely gets 5/5 stars for my summer makeup routine! 

Ok, so this post is definitely out of order for how I apply these products, but whatever. I HAVE to mention Too Faced. I discovered Too Faced cosmetics last year when I was in Bellevue for a weekend trip, I dropped my bronzer on the floor in the bathroom of my hotel and it shattered into a million pieces. Once again I frantically ran to Sephora and grabbed the first product I could get my hands on, I definitely believe that the packaging played a part in my discovery of this brand. If you haven't seen what it looks like, please, go check it out. It is SO CUTE. There are heart shaped blush compacts, brightly colored lipglosses, cute names, etc. And beyond packaging, the formulation of everything I've tried by Too Faced is PERFECTION. 

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The Too Faced Born This Way foundation has been sold out at my Sephora for a long time, but I finally got my hands on it and it is hands down the best foundation I've ever used. I've been on the quest for a foundation that works for me and I feel like I've tried everything, so you can imagine my excitement when I found this stuff! When applied with a damp Beauty Blender, your skin will look and feel baby soft and flawless. It looks like you don't have anything on at all! It leaves a dewy slightly matte finish and obviously when you have the correct color for your skin tone it matches with your skins natural texture. The best news about the foundation is that it comes in 18 colors so there is a match for every skin color! I've heard great things about the Born This Way concealer as well, so I'll be picking it up on my next trip to the mall.

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Get ready to hear a lot about Too Faced haha! This is another product that was sold out for a long time, always a good sign, which is why I pursued it until I found it! The Primed and Poreless powder is AHHH-MAZING. Especially when used in conjunction with the previously mentioned foundation. If you have any pores on your face that show after using foundation, this literally erases any trace of them. I have huge pores so this is a must for me. The only downside to this product is that I've somehow already hit pan after using it for just under a month which wouldn't be an issue but for the price of $30, I expect to use it for a decent amount of time before having to shell out some $ to replace. Unfortunately I've fallen in love with this product so regardless of the cost-per-wear, I will be re-purchasing this one again. 

 I don't even know where to begin with this stuff. Obviously by the state of the packaging this little one has been used to death and I'm just about ready to replace it for a fresh compact. This is the exact same one that I purchased on my little trip to Bellevue that I mentioned earlier and is the product that began my obsession with everything Too Faced. In comparison to the longevity of my Primed and Poreless powder, this little guy has been going strong for over a year and there's still plenty left! The Chocolate Soleil Bronzer is by far my favorite item from this brand. It is the perfect matte brown color, and can be used all over your body wherever you need a little contour or want to accentuate. I love that there is zero shimmer and zero orange undertones, it makes this bronzer a multi-purpose product as you can give yourself a little color but carve out a fantastic contour. LOVE. 

Whew, almost done! These last few are some tried and true items that I've had in my collection for a long time, but have worked with me and for me for just as long, and I don't forecast them going anywhere anytime soon! 

This next product is another cult favorite, but I like to think that I was the first to discover this amazing stuff. The Laura Mercier Secret Brightening powder is one of those products that you don't think you need until you try it and then you find yourself wondering how you ever lived without it. This stuff is magical. I use this brightening powder under my eyes to amplify my concealer and really make sure that I get the super "awake" look even if I'm not feeling it (haha secret weapon!). I know it is not recommended to use all over the face since it has a pearly white tone, but I have definitely also used it as a highlight in a pinch! 

I used to solely use MAC when I was just starting out with makeup years ago, but it's definitely phased out of my collection in a big way besides lipstick and this little guy. Even though I may not use MAC foundation or powder anymore, I will ALWAYS include this  in my collection. The color I use is Painterly, and although I don't always wear eyeshadow, I will always put this on my eyelids to cover any darkness since my skin is so light, it instantly brightens up my whole face and makes my hooded eyelids look more open. As an eyeshadow primer, this stuff is better than anything labeled "eye shadow primer" that I've tried in the past. Underneath any shadow this will eliminate creasing 100% and it also amplifies the pigmentation in any colored shadow. It also comes in a range of colors (I've only ever used Painterly).  A++ in my book!

Ok, the one drugstore item that is a constant for me is this mascara. I feel like if you know anything about makeup I don't even need to say why this stuff is so amazing. You already know! The formulation is perfection, the wand is lengthening and separating, it doesn't clump or flake, it is just amazing. If you haven't tried it, TRY IT. End of story. 

We're at the end!

....I do have an honorable mention product that I just discovered this past week, and I don't think I can consider it a full fledged favorite since it hasn't gone through all of the trials yet, but as I've used this over the past week it has definitely grown on me in a big way.

I'll keep it short, but I think this stuff deserves a little back story. I have never, I repeat NEVER used a face primer religiously. I never really understood the purpose and everything that I had tried never seemed to make any difference in the wearability of any product I used over the top of it.

I recently subscribed to Sephora Play, and I've been having fun trying out some new products. I got this Smashbox Photo Finish primer in my July box, and so far it is fantastic! I've always had an issue with my foundation slipping off throughout the day since I work long days and don't have time for touch-ups. I get weird greasy spots on my face (ew, sorry) and no primer has ever helped.... until now! This stuff cures all of my work-makeup woes and then some! It does a fabulous job of evening out any texture issues that my skin has, is blurs my big pores and it keeps my foundation even and matte throughout my entire work day! 

I've been so excited about my Sephora Play subscription, most of the products I've received over the three months that I've gotten it, I will be purchasing when the deluxe samples run out. It's by far the best subscription box I've tried (and I'm pretty sure I've tried them all lol).

WOW. If you've stuck around this long, snaps for you! Thank you for reading, and hopefully you've discovered some new products from this post, or are inspired to try some of my favorites that you may have previously been hesitant on trying. 

Please comment below any of your summer favorites that I should try! I'm always looking for new favs, and I love a good reference :) 

xo Julianne