Beauty Q&A

Let’s talk beauty! Over the past few weeks, I seemed to be receiving similar emails from readers asking about skincare, beauty and hair. So, I thought I’d compile a list of the most frequently asked questions and answer them for you here, as well:

WHAT’S YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE? My skincare routine is fairly simple, but consistency is key! (I definitely notice if I neglect it.) At night, I remove all make-up first with one of these towelettes then use a Clarisonic brush along with this cleanser, which targets both acne and anti-aging. I then apply this moisturizer and serum to my lashes. If my skin is acting up, I’ll spot treat with this miracle product or apply this charcoal mask. That’s it, for now!

WHAT NAIL COLOR ARE YOU WEARING IN BLOG POSTS? Most likely, I’m wearing Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in ‘Smartease’ or essie ‘Fiji’. I have a hard time shelling out $$$ for weekly manicures, so I try to perfect the technique at home and reserve mani’s for special occasions or time with girlfriends.

WHAT LIP COLOR ARE YOU WEARING IN BLOG POSTS? In the summer, I like to keep things light — so I’ll wear Sugar Lip Tint in ‘Tulip.’ Otherwise, my favorite lipsticks are YSL ‘Pink in Devotion’ or Revlon ‘Sorbet.’

WHAT PRODUCTS DO YOU THINK ARE WORTH THE SPLURGE? Personally, I feel it’s smart to invest in effective skincare and a good foundation. I also started using this lash serum a few weeks ago and can already tell a difference in the growth of my lashes. (The serum is now on sale here.)

WHAT FOUNDATION DO YOU LIKE BEST? NARS Sheer Glow. I wish I had discovered this one earlier! The formula is smooth and sheer, with buildable coverage. I use shade 1.5 ‘Vallarius.’

DO YOU HAVE ANY DRUGSTORE FAVORITES? Absolutely! I swear this illuminator (in ‘Gleam’) rivals its NARS equivalent. I use a little on my cheeks to give a subtle glow. I also like this drugstore bronzer for less than $5, and this lip color (in ‘Sorbet’) is a great inexpensive dupe for YSL. Lastly, this mascara has been my go-to favorite for years!

HOW DO YOU GET A TAN? I try to limit time in the direct sun, so I rely on St. Tropez Self-Tanner for a faux glow year-round. Just a forewarning: it dries really quickly, so I use a mitt to avoid a terrible hand staining situation.

ANY TIPS FOR MAKE-UP THAT STAYS ALL DAY LONG? Good question! During warmer months, I’ll sweep a little of this lightweight powder under my eyes and to my T-zone to set things in place. I also rely on this setting spray for special events, or days I know will run into late night.

TELL ME MORE ABOUT YOUR HAIR COLOR! I’m a natural strawberry blonde, but I like to get highlights twice a year to brighten things up. I visited Lumination salon this spring in Chicago and LOVE the color Adam gave me.

WHAT HAIR PRODUCTS DO YOU USE? Living Proof as a collection works for me. I especially like this styling treatment, intensive mask, and dry shampoo. To get the curls you see often in posts, I use a curling wand. The key is to curl AWAY from your face and to run your fingers through the curls, so they’re not too perfect.