my beauty essentials

I did a post with my makeup favorites a while ago, but I figured it was time for an updated one since I’ve streamlined my collection of products since then and found a few new favorites. Here’s a rundown of the products I turn to again and again.

Makeup

Clinique Even Better Makeup SPF 15 // I wish I could pinpoint exactly what I like about this foundation, but I just know that it’s my favorite one that I’ve ever used. I mix it with my favorite every day lotion (about 2 parts lotion, 1 part foundation) for the perfect all-over skin-evening wash of pigment and moisture. It feels totally weightless and yet does everything a foundation should.

Fit Me Concealer // After running out of a pretty meh concealer, I turned to the internet and did a quick search for the best drugstore concealer (I don’t have a huge, constant need for concealer, so I didn’t feel the need to buy a pricier one) – and this was the top result. So I picked one up, and it’s just what I was looking for. It covers dark circles as well as they can be covered, and works like a charm on little spots and blemishes.

Posie Tint // I’ve discovered that I really like non-powder blushes. I don’t use blush that often, usually just because I forget, but I’m starting to use it a little more frequently. This one goes on really smooth, and the color and packaging make it a total winner. It’s also really easy to build color – but on that note, it’s also really easy to go overboard. And I’ve learned the hard way that you have to apply it to your finger first, then rub it over your cheeks – it doesn’t lend itself to blending, and you don’t want weird, super-pigmented splotches on your face. Even so, if you can apply it well, this one’s a winner.

Sephora Collection Nano Eyeliner // This has been my go-to eyeliner for years. It comes in a ton of colors, and the small size and price tag means it’s not a huge commitment. It goes on really easily and is perfect for smudging, making it ideal to create a variety of looks. My favorites are Midnight Black, Kaki Green, Gri Gri and (for spring) Lagoon.

Lash Sensational // So I tend to switch up mascaras a lot – probably because I have abnormally long eyelashes to start with (not to brag…) so they all kind of do the same thing for me. But I have to say, this one is a total winner. Just one coat makes my lashes unbelievably long and thick, so much so that I’ve gotten compliments on them. And doesn’t everyone want that? (Yes.) You should have this.

Sugar Lip Treatment // I read about this years ago and immediately knew that I needed it. And now I kind of hate myself for giving in and buying it, because I think it’s ridiculously expensive but I love love love it and will continue to buy it. It smells awesome, feels awesome, and it works. Plus the tube feels kind of glamorous. I swear by this stuff.

Cheek Stain // My other go-to blush. This stuff is definitely easier to blend than Posie Tint, and still lets you build color. I use True Love, which is a gorgeous, natural reddish-pink, and it smells so good.

Hair

Paul Mitchell Sculpting Foam // This is a recent addition to my beauty routine, but it’s quickly become one of my favorite products. Besides smelling like an island vacation, it makes my hair everything I’ve ever wanted it to be: super soft, unbelievably shiny, lightweight but voluminous. It’s pretty much the only hair product I’ll ever need.

Frizz Ease Straight Fixation Styling Crème // So, my hair isn’t actually frizzy – I stole this from my sister a long time ago and the bottle magically doesn’t ever seem to run out (watch, it’ll be empty next time I go to use it). It’s basically just leave-in conditioner, and it keeps my hair from going crazy when I let it air dry.

Face

Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub // This is my favorite face scrub. I’m not too particular about following a strict face routine, but I use this two or three times a week and it leaves my skin extra soft. Plus, I just love knowing that it’s gentle and made from a lot of natural ingredients.

Clinique Clarifying Lotion // I really love this stuff – it keeps my skin clear and even, feels refreshing, takes off makeup, and, unlike other toners I’ve tried, it doesn’t sting. Plus, it’s pink. Who wouldn’t love that?

Oil-Free Moisture // This has been my go-to moisture for years. It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and works year round (for me, at least – I don’t have dry skin). Plus, it’s great to mix with makeup, like I said above.

Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion + // I don’t have a strict skincare regimen, but I try to use this ultra-thick lotion once a week or so, especially in the winter to make sure my skin doesn’t get dry. It’s rich and keeps my skin feeling healthy.

Argan Oil Light // So everyone has heard the hype about argan oil, and I think it’s pretty great. This light version works equally as well on skin as it does in hair. It’s kind of just a nice all-purpose beauty staple to have.

Yes to Cucumbers Facial Wipes // I can be hugely lazy when it comes to taking off makeup. If it’s late and I’m tired, I’ll opt to go to sleep and forgo washing my face, even when I know I should. But these wipes have saved me. They smell fresh and clean, wipe off makeup easily, and leave my skin feeling firm and refreshed.

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