August Favorites: Beauty.
It’s my favorite time!!
Even more so because it’s almost fall and I seriously flip over fall colors and shades and all things makeup. I can’t wait to break out some of my darker shades. Last month I gave a big long spiel about what I’ve been doing pregnancy wise, so I won’t go into that again. Not much has changed at ALL.
In the meantime, here is what I’m loving this month!
First up, I think I finally found a face cream to use at night that I really love. I’ve been using andalou naturals renewal cream all month – in fact, almost exactly a month because a few of you were talking about it in the comments of last month’s post! I happened to be at whole foods that same day and grabbed it. I really am loving it so far. And you only need the tiniest bit!
I wish it came in a pump or a tube, but this is good enough. It’s beat up because I’ve already traveled with it twice. In the morning I’m still using something with a hella lot of sunscreen. At the moment, I’ve been finishing up some coola matte sunscreen I have. Sometimes I’ll even put it over this andalou naturals. So far, so good.
So, the thing is that I’ve barely worn makeup this month AT ALL! Between moving and vacation and running around like a crazy person, it’s been the bare minimum unless I’m going somewhere nice at night. I’ve only been using a few things on my face, and this has been one of them – the maybelline age rewind concealer. I’ve loved this for years and have raved about it. I don’t love it for long wearing makeup – for that, I use the MAC prolongwear concealer but I find that this is so brightening and moisturizing. This is the lightest shade (in fair) and I also have the brightening shade (which is pinker) – but this is what I’ve been using nearly every day.
And true story: a few years ago when I first bought it, it was after reading a review on makeup alley. The reviewer said she took her newborn to their first doctor appointment after having days of no sleep, and put nothing on but this concealer. And the doctor said she looked so awake! Ha – that sold me. Crazy enough, I guess I’ll see how that works out come December.
Long story long: I use this under my eyes and rub the excess on my lids. Sometimes I wear my tarte tinted moisturizer underneath, but if I’m in a huge rush, I don’t even do that.
One of the other things I do and can’t live without – is my brows. This is still so new to me because even though I’ve been obsessed with makeup since like seventh grade, I never did my brows until a year or so ago. I’ve never had my brows professionally waxed or shaped (and yes have screwed them up majorly myself in the past) – but I wax them myself every two weeks or so. Now, I can’t imagine NOT doing my brows! I’m obsessed. It’s really true that they do frame your face. And it definitely takes some getting used to, and I definitely sometimes still overdo them and look ridiculous.
Either way, this is my favorite combo that I have been using for months: MAC eyeshadow in espresso, that I use with this tarte eyebrow brush that came in a set with their waterproof mousse liner. And I finish it off with the anastasia clear brow gel. I LOVE THIS STUFF. For the first six months or so I used the clear mascara from maybelline. Um, cannot even compare to this brow gel. Your eyebrows will not MOVE with this stuff on – and we are talking all day. It’s fabulous. I’ve gone through five or six tubes already. Totally worth it in my opinion – if you’re a brow person.
Additionally, I’m still using my favorite mascara (loreal voluminous carbon black) – and those three things are all I’ve been doing to my face: the concealer, the brows and the mascara. I finish it off with…
…lips! My cousin was using this lip balm from whole foods for a few months and I’d steal it every time she was around. The peppermint is incredible – better than burt’s bees peppermint! I still love burt’s bees coconut pear and grapefruit, but their original mint was always a little too waxy for me. This mongo kiss balm is SO smooth. I adore it. And the smell is almost like vanilla peppermint. So good.
I keep this one in my purse. It doesn’t quite hold a candle in lip repair to my fresh sugar advanced lip therapy – but with how expensive that stuff is, I refuse to put it in my purse. I only use it at night and it lives on my nightstand.
While we are talking about lip balm, let me tell you about a product that I didn’t like. The past few months some of you have told me how incredible the nuxe lip balm is. I bit the bullet and bought it three weeks ago. I used it every night for two weeks and something just seemed… off. It kind of sat on top of my lips and didn’t ever sink in, no matter how little I used. But the worst part was around the two week mark, my lips started swelling and feeling all burny and stuff. At first I thought maybe it was plumped up pregnancy lips (um, hello awesome?) but they were burning and just… hurting. That was the only thing I used that was different and I don’t know if I was somehow allergic to it or something? A few days after I stopped, the issue went away. I was just so bummed and unimpressed. I bought it because it has crazy insane positive reviews! Whomp whomp. Different strokes for different folks.
Anyhoo – these are the lipsticks I’ve been going nuts over. When I say nuts, I mean I’ve worn these constantly. Almost everyday – even when I’m wearing the concealer, mascara and brows only. I love them so much!
First is MAC relentlessly red, which is sort of like a coraly bright red? I just love it so much.
And next is urban decay native, which is the perfect shade of pink. It kinda reminds me of MAC creme cup (another one I adore) but with such a moisturizing formula. I don’t need lip balm underneath and it’s still so soft. Super pretty!
While those are the basics, here are a few extras I’ve been loving this month. I did have to do a TV segment and some events that required just a little more makeup (well, for me, because I love it) and these things stood out.
First up, the hourglass ambient lighting powder in luminous light. LOVE. OMG. It’s so natural, not super sparkly, but gives me an almost glowy look? I totally don’t buy the whole pregnancy glow thing and think it’s something people just tell pregnant women. This powder though… totally glows.
I have the ambient trio that came out last year and left me fairly underwhelmed, besides the middle shade that I use as a brow highlight. This shade though has already got a TON of use. It’s the best one, in my opinion.
And second, this smashbox always sharp waterproof liner in this awesome smoke gray shade. This is new for me because I haven’t strayed from urban decay 24/7 liners in YEARS. They may even have a shade just like this, but I was so drawn to this specific one in ulta that I couldn’t pass it up. I love it on my eyes. Not quite as smooth as the 24/7, but the color is awesome.
As for nail stuff, I know this is totally a fall shade but I couldn’t help it. I even referenced it in a recipe post last week. This is zoya yuma. GAHHH. Freaking out over it. I described it as a dark blue with gold flecks before, but it’s really almost a gray and sometimes even green at times. I’ve stuck to mostly zoya polish while pregnant and couldn’t pass this up. Totally gorgeous.
Finally, I gotta give another shout out to my favorite dry shampoo. Reason being – I have to tell you about another product I really didn’t like. I went to ulta to get a travel size of batiste and they were out, so I grabbed the macadamia oil version of dry shampoo. You know I love their regular shampoo and deep repair masque… but the dry shampoo? ICK. It did nothing. It almost felt like hairspray. I should mention that I don’t really use dry shampoo instead of shampooing – my hair doesn’t get very oily (I have dry skin) and I use it for added texture. That macadamia version was awful. It reminded me how much I love batiste… and the wild scent is definitely my favorite.
One of the most common questions I get beauty-wise is how I use dry shampoo, especially since my hair is dark. I think the key is to only use a little bit. I hold it far from my head and give a few sprays at the roots. YES it totally looks white and powdery at this point. I use my hands and rub them into my scalp and all over to disperse the product. Then I let it sit for 10 minutes or so and style my hair. That might be the wrong way, but it’s what works for me! It gives me some texture and volume at the roots. As a note, I only use it maybe twice a week or so.
And that’s a wrap! Kinda boring but really and truly the big things I’ve been using and loving this month. You know the drill, tell me your favorites! Spill your guts. I’m dying to get my hands on the Naked Basics 2 palette and will probably buy it this weekend. The Lorac Pro 2 looks awesome and I adore the original, but I don’t think I need it. What new things for fall are you loving?
{as usual, none of this is sponsored and all of these products were purchased by me. i am not affiliated with any of the companies above, nor do i accept free products. just love to talk about what i like, makeup junkie to makeup junkie. there are a few amazon affiliate links above. thank you for being here!}
52 Comments on “August Favorites: Beauty.”
I bet you read beauty blogs as well as food ones. You should do a post on your favorites. I’d love you know which ones you read!
Yes! That would be great to know! I have a few I like and follow, but I like to know what other people are checking out. Temptalia is a great one, fyi!
temptalia is my favorite! i really trust her reviews. i also like vampy varnish. i honestly don’t read too many beauty blogs – i more so watch you tube reviews. i’ll usually search on you tube for product reviews and watch a few, but i do love channels like makeupbytiffanyd, makeup by alli, tati from glam life guru!
you need to check out Jaclyn Hill on youtube! She’s the best and totally adorable!
You should try the Big Sexy Hair Volumizing Dry Shampoo! I also use dry shampoo mainly for texture and lift, and BSH has been AMAZING.
Link on Ulta; http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4270035
I have to comment that the BSH dry shampoo feels VERY much like hairspray to me :(
Um, you have amazing eyebrows!! I can’t believe you wax them yourself–I’d end up accidentally taking an entire one off or something :/
seriously, thank you!!
NARS Audacious lipsticks are KILLING me. highly recommend looking into some. Also, Re, UD Revolution Lipstick–the Pulp Fiction Mia Wallace one was really cute and feels like their regular formula. If you’re into a crazy dark red for fall, I’d recommend that, if you can find it, or Gash.
i’m dying over the NARS ones too. dying.
that mac lipstick is PERRRRFECCCTTTT!!!!!
I hear you. Last thing I need is another palette, yet I did NEEEEED it. I confuse “needs” and “wants”, clearly! I do like the Lorac 2 palette a lot but it’s not as cohesive and basic as the original so I sometimes stare at it and don’t know what to do for a complete look. Quality is great though.
This month I was very into the L’Oreal Infallible Amber Rush shadow, Becca highlighters in Opal and Rose Gold (OMG), NYC Sunny bronzer (really is amazing for $3!), a few YSL Sheer Voluptes, and Rimmel has fantastic super shimmery eye paints for like $5. They’re quite awesome.
And all the new B&B Works fall candles because….. PUMPKIN. Spent like 1/3 paycheck on fall candles because I’m a nutbag.
i also love amber rush shadow!! it’s a little too dark/bronzey for me in the winter but in summer it’s great. and the candles… oh yes.
I think it’s amazing that you wax your own brows! I still have yet to master plucking! UGH.
My favorite nail polish right now is ‘Clambake’ by Essie! It’s a bright red! LOVE it!
I am also currently loving revlon balm stain in lovesick, it’s a lovely raspberry color that isn’t too intense with my pale skin.
I’ve definitely simp lied my makeup this summer barely wearing it all actually, but the balm stain has been a mainstay.
Can’t wait to hear about your fall favorites!!
i love those balm stains too!!
I’m so glad you tried the Andalou Naturals face cream, I was one of the ones recommending it last month. I actually use the one you got during the day (with the Andalou BB cream with sunscreen, too) and then the Andalou Reservatol Q face cream at night, which is the thickest face cream I’ve ever seen.
I think I mentioned them last month, but they also make some great masks. The pumpkin one is amazing, as is the kombucha peel (which doesn’t peel…). My pores love them!
ah yes you did!! i need to try the reservatol Q one. that may be next! and definitely the mask and peel. THANK YOU!
So bummed Nuxe didn’t work out for you! I use it religiously and have never had any irritation. At least you found something that works for you!
i was so bummed too! i have no idea why. i’ve really never had a reaction to anything. i might try it again in a few weeks just to make sure. i *want* to love it!
Can you please do a post on how you wax your own eyebrows? I’ve been trying to do it at home for awhile but its so not easy!
oh man. i don’t even know where i would begin! i’ve been waxing them myself since i was 17. but i never really “shaped” them. i think i started by waxing the stray hairs – i usually do any sort of shaping with tweezers and it wasn’t until recently. i swear i don’t do anything near professional! it’s truly been trial and error for 13+ years! (i don’t suggest that, i would maybe suggest getting them shaped by a pro, haha. then waxing on your own from there.)
that lip balm sounds great! my favorite eyeliners are by stila but that smashbox one has me intrigued. i usually don’t do black eyeliner because my brows are naturally super dark and it ends up looking over the top, so i’m always looking for grey or brown eyeliners!
my current favorite beauty product is probably the bare minerals foundation i just purchased. i’d been using liquid foundation of a variety of different brands, but i love that you get to control how much powder you put on (& that my face doesn’t get oily when i use it)!
Love these posts! Have you tried the Anastasia brow wiz automatic pencil? I used to use the Mac shadow too, but found that I like this better. And then, bargain alert, I top it with the ELF clear brow gel/mascara from target. It’s soooo inexpensive and rivals the Anastasia clear gel for staying power.
i have!! i do have the brow wiz pencil and while i like it, for some reason i still find it easier to use the brush and powder! probably because i’m still fairly new. even with the pencil it seems i draw them too harshly!
Oh I am so confused about dry shampoo. Interesting that you use it for texture. I have a coworker that swears by it but their hair does NOT look good.
Totally not boring! i love these round-ups.
As a chick who’s had massive eyebrows her whole life, I can sympathize. I’m SO DANG GLAD brows are back in style. I’m worried the tadpole eyebrow is going to come back in style. Please say no!
I need a glow powder-thanks for the rec! And I totally cracked up when you said ‘hella lot.’ Someone has been on the west coast recently! You usually don’t say lot after it. like, it’s hella hot!’ LOL
anyway, please never stop these beauty posts I love them so much! and so does my Mom!
Great post Jessica. What do you use to remove your eye makeup?
most often – coconut oil! it’s my favorite. but sometimes i get lazy (because you have to dip into the pot) and will buy MAC cleanse off oil or josie maran oil because they come with pumps and are easier mid-wash. but either way – i only use oils and love them!
These are may FAVORITE posts. I am lost in sephoras/ultas and can only buy something by recommendation.
I love the urban decay brow box right now and the benefit highlighter is pretty nice.
Best lipgloss of all time is the Bobbi Brown Brightening lip gloss in white. http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/bobbi-brown-brightening-lip-gloss/3207237
I am completely hooked right now on Too Faced Natural Eyes palette. All of the colors are gorgeous! I can do day or night eyes with it. It is so versatile! I recently bought a new concealer from Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer, which is fabulous. It goes on light, but covers really well and does not get cakey. I am thinking of trying Urban Decay’s eyeshadow primer. I need something new and different.
I’m pretty sure we are beauty products soul mates! You had me at Carbon Black mascara. It’s the best! I never even bother to try other mascaras anymore because it’s always my favorite. I’m thinking I’m going to have to grab the Naked 2 Basics palette too. If it’s not sold out…
I love these posts Jeasica however I have to stop reading them because I just keep adding stuff to my To Buy list. Do you know how much I need more beauty products? About as much as I need a punch in the face, that’s how much! Have a great weekend!
I love these kinds of posts! That concealer is my fav too! I didn’t know there was a pink brightening one though. Thanks for that tip, Jessica! Also, that urban decay lipstick is lovely and I may just have to pick one up myself (I have such dry lips and always have to coat my lips with a bucket of cocoa butter chapstick before applying lipstick). Also again, If you like the hourglass powder, you should try TheBalm Cosmetics Mary-Loumanizer. It is the BEST powder highlight I’ve ever come across. In love. Happy Friday!
i love love love mary loumanizer!! i find it to be super sparkly tho, so sometimes i save it for fancier occasions.
Love your beauty posts! The Zoya polish is dreamy, definitely going on my wishlist.
A skincare line that I love is Be fine. Their night cream is my jam. I discovered the brand through Birchbox a few years ago and have since repurchased the night cream 4 times. It’s around $30 and it lasts at least 6 months (I use 2 pumps and it covers my whole face)
Tarte Lights, Camera FLASHES Mascara. Just do it. It’s amazing.
1. I bought the Vanilla Honey Mongo Kiss lip balm at Whole Foods a week or so ago. Love!
2. Swooning over Zoya’s new fall colors — I have the Yuma on now but I want to get Autumn next time I go for a manicure.
3. You sold me — just went out and bought the age rewind concealer today! :)
The Anasatia clear brow gel is the best! Love it. I’ll have to try your favorite dry shampoo.
I’m totally impressed you wax your own brows! Any tips? What sorta wax? It seems like it’s be messy!
I need that under eye concealer!! I have a neutragena 3 in 1, but it’s messy to use.
i wish i had tips! it’s really been a trial and error process over the last 15+ years – mainly just starting by waxing strays and shaping more with tweezers as i get older. the wax i use is http://www.sallyhansen.com/hair-removal/wax/body/simple-spa-wax-warmer-kit
i will say i find plain old wax (without strips on top) easiest to use!
Thanks for a recommendation for the glow powder. I have always had probs finding a glow powder or cream. I feel like anything w shine looks ok at first then a few hrs later I look in the mirror and something just looks “off”. Hard to describe but almost like the slight bit of oil I get naturally during the day doesn’t react well with the product. No matter if it’s a highlight cream I’m applying like to the apples of my cheeks or a powder product for some glow etc. does anyone else have this issue?
Other than that I love benefit brow zings. Ur only the powder not the wax part and Anastasia gel. I’ve also been using cream blush lately more than powder and liking the results as well as skipping almost all powder since I got some color on my face from the beach and nothing matches.
I’ve been having my eyebrows waxed or threaded for years, but do it myself? God no! I’d end up taking them all off – so kudos to you! I love the Lush No Drought Dry Shampoo. It’s the only one I’ve tried that doesn’t leave a residue in my hair.
That moisturizer from Andalou is my favourite! Love the smell too :)
The new Marc Jacobs line of lip colors! Get one! I swear, I’ve been wearing Pop-Arazzi ALL day and its still bright and on there (and I have eaten several times)! Its drying, but I wear lots of chapstick anyways so I don’t care. But the colors are awesome and the packaging is adorbs and it STAYS!
Just curious what under eye cream you are using now that you are pregnant? I also loved the Kiehls avocado eye cream but read that it has parabens in it (I’m prego, too). Now I don’t know what to buy!
ugh i hate that keihls has parabens too!! their creme de corps was one of my faves. :( but to answer you’re question i’ve been using the supergoop SPF eye serum in the daytime (i think i wrote about it last month) and at night just piling on the moisturizer above under my eyes!
Thank you!! I was just looking at that in Sephora. I ended up ordering Origins Eye Doctor, it had good reviews. I’ll have to try Supergoop for daytime. Thanks again! :)
You have GOT to try the Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked powder in Highlight 01. It’s even prettier than the ambient lighting powders!!!
FYI…Batiste Dry Shampoo now comes in 2 colours for us dark haired girls…one is dark & deep brunette & the lighter one is medium & brunette….it’s tinted so no more white powder..LOVE IT!…I order online from Nail Polish Canada.com …shipping is free on orders over $25….check them out they sell more than nail polish :0)
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