One of the fun perks of blogging — or simply browsing any Sephora store, really — is sampling a range of beauty products. I’m open to trying (nearly) anything, but there are a handful of items that really work for me and that I’d buy repeatedly. Here’s a look at favorite products I tried last year and will restock for 2017.
MARIO BADESCU DRYING LOTION | Where has this been all my life?! This stuff is a life saver. If I feel a breakout coming on, this spot treatment zaps blemishes overnight. It’s $17 a bottle and will last you forever. Just apply with a cotton swab, let it dry and work its magic.
CLARISONIC BRUSH | The Clarisonic has done wonders for my skin this past year. The brush does an amazing job exfoliating, and leaves my face feeling fresh and clean. The Clarisonic collection features a variety of tools and replacement brushes to fit all skincare needs — including for guys, too.
NEULASH SERUM | I admit: I was a little skeptical how this would work, but after 2 weeks of use, I could definitely tell my lashes looked longer and fuller. (Others noticed, too!) It’s a little pricey, but it totally works. (And less scary and time-intensive than lash extensions, in my opinion.) One 0.2 oz tube has lasted me nearly six months, applying 4-5 times per week. If you want longer and fuller lashes, I can’t recommend this serum enough!
FRESH SUGAR LIP TINT | I’ve been a fan of these lip balms for some time, but I really became hooked on the shade ‘Tulip’ last year. It’s a perfect color to me — one that looks subtle, but still adds enough tint, and is less fussy than applying lipstick.
SALLY HANSEN GEL TOPCOAT | I usually save trips to the nail salon for special occasions or time with girlfriends, because this polish is just so good. I use this top coat over any ol’ polish, as it locks in the finish and shine for over a week. It’s under $10 at the drugstore and worth a try.
IT COSMETICS CONCEALER | This is easily the best concealer I’ve ever used. It’s full coverage, yet blendable… a little goes a long way. I use a tiny dab of this concealer under my eyes and spots where needed. It’s waterproof and doesn’t crease, lasting day to night.
DPHUE PURPLE SHAMPOO | I originally tried this shampoo as a sample, and was pleasantly surprised! It turns down any yellow brassiness and revives that fresh ‘cool’ blonde tone. The shampoo also lathers well and smells great, tiding me over between highlight appointments at Civello.
BOBBI BROWN BLUSH | At first, this blush looks bright — but all you need is a little swipe of color to the cheeks. This formula is perfectly pigmented and lightweight. I love the shades ‘Pale Pink’ and ‘Coral Sugar.’ Both give a youthful and healthy, pretty glow.
Have you tried any of these? What are your favorite beauty products of late?