I know it's taken a while for me to actually generate a consistent skincare routine and I do have a multitude of products like cleaners and creams. I thought I would share a few of my luxury skincare products that I have grown to love and received from a very good and generous friend who had a family member work at Sephora and give samples to. I am always up to trying new skincare products because my skin constantly changes and I am never one to keep up with one routine.
Also, I linked all of the full sizes I could find just because most of these are either travel or sample sizes. Obviously, I don't use these every single day because I like to use them sparingly, but I do have to say that I have tried all of them out for a few months now and really love how they've all transformed my skin.
Also, I linked all of the full sizes I could find just because most of these are either travel or sample sizes. Obviously, I don't use these every single day because I like to use them sparingly, but I do have to say that I have tried all of them out for a few months now and really love how they've all transformed my skin.
Lancome Renergie Lift Volumetry Lifting and Reshaping Cream- When I do want a little lift and I want to prematurely start to prevent any wrinkles, even if it may seem like I don't need to. I love how soft this cream is on my skin and it also has spf which is another vital thing to have in a moisturizer/cream.
Clarins UV Plus Sunscreen- Speaking of spf, I like this Clarins sunscreen a lot and I have trouble finding a nice sunscreen that won't break out my skin. I have tried Neutrogena, but I am so in love with this mini sample. It's so cute and easy to take with me to the beach!
Clinique All About Eyes Cream- I am so bad at taking care of my eyes and I am so obsessed with Clinique's full moisturizing range. I love this cream so much because not only does it depuff my eyes, it completely gets rid of redness and wakes me up after I apply it at night. I wake up refreshed and not tired eyed.
Shiseido Wrinkle Resist 24 hr Softener- Only recently have I started to use this Shiseido Wrinkle Resist because I have this problem with a wrinkly forehead and I will just shake a drop or two onto a cotton pad and pat it on my forehead and upper cheek area. I know I am very young to use any anti aging or wrinkle products, but it has been a constant struggle when your foundation creases into your wrinkles and laugh lines! It has really helped smooth my skin, too.
Clarins Toning Lotion- I love toners, especially during these hotter months. I have normal to oily skin and recently I have noticed that my skin is less oily because I will use this every other night on my face. Toners can be harsh to my skin sometimes, but I love the way this really prevents shine and breakouts.
First Aid Beauty Cleanser- This has probably been my favorite cleanser this year by far. It smells so fresh and does a great job at getting everything off my face. Dirt, grime, dead skin, makeup, literally anything. It is so gentle and actually reasonably priced for the full size. You only need to lather a pea sized amount and you're good to go, day or night!
Kate Somerville Exfolikate Treatment- I have been getting used to this "2 minute" mask and am so surprised at how it makes my skin feel so refreshed and soft. I think it smells like cloves or gingerbread and I apply it in the shower while I do other things and then after a couple minutes, I wipe it off and my face is exfoliated and smoother than ever. I might purchase more of these mini sizes because a little goes a long way!
Lancome Renergie Microlift Lifting Cream- This is another lifting cream that I have tried out by Lance, and I have to say, they do not mess around. This and the other cream are probably the best lifting creams and treatments I have ever tried. I am so impressed by the results and how much my face looks awake and revived when I use these two. I am so gonna put these on my wishlist.
High end brands don't mess around. I am so grateful for a "no makeup" bestie that was just willing to let me use all of these and keep all of these amazing products. It's not everyday you get to use very nice skincare or products and I think everyone should find some type of product that they love and treat themselves to because you and your skin deserve it. I hope that my reviews helped anyone deciding on skincare products or are just curious as to what these products do. I know I always am.
Have you tried any really good skincare lately?
I feel like I've been lacking on my recent favorites lately with makeup, so I thought I would compile a few products that I have really enjoyed because I have been busy with many events like my prom and graduation.
As the summer is beginning, I have really loved the light makeup look and have embraced my natural glow. I have never liked a full face of makeup, but when I want to wear some, I wear little. I have mentioned some of these products before, but have grown to love them.
I have been obsessed with this Bobbi Brown color corrector because it is so moisturizing and great to use after long nights or on unexpected zits that might pop up.
I have also loved this Lancome Renegerie Lift Volumetry has been great on my skin because it has spf and is extremely moisturizing.
For adding a hint of color to any look, I like to use this Tarte Flush because it gives a nice pigment and isn't overwhelming on the cheeks.
For my lips, I have been trying to wear brighter and more vibrant colors. This Ysl Rouge Rose lipstick has not only changed the way I wear lipstick, but has probably been the nicest one I have ever owned.
I have enjoyed using my translucent powders recently, but I have also loved this Bare Minerals powder a lot because it has an incredible, oil free consistency and wear. During the hot months, it can be a bummer when your face powder gives out on you. I love taking a big powder brush and sometimes I just wear this on its own.
One product that has really convinced me to be a little more lenient with buying more expensive makeup is this bb cream. It has been so great for these warmer months because it's light and covering. It doesn't feel sticky, but it leaves a natural glow and finish. You really don't need more than a pea sized amount and it is really great to take on trips.
My signature scent has really, over the course of the past few months, has been this Jo Malone Peony and Blush Suede perfume. It is the total embodiment of spring and all that I love very much. I use it so sparingly and I don't think I will ever buy another kind of perfume again.
Blues have looked so nice on my tootsies and I actually found this scented Revlon Sea Spray Nailpolish at the dollar store and I keep grabbing it as a color to use. It is so bright and actually does smell really good! Do not underestimate cheap nail polish. You never know what you might find.
What's been a favorite product of yours this month?
I feel like I haven't written about makeup in so long, probably because I've been busy finishing school and finally graduating. I wanted to share my typical, spring makeup that I actually wore on my graduation. When it comes to spring, I love color and light face makeup. No one wants a cake face when it's 75 and sunny. Chicago has been warming up over the past few weeks and I have just celebrated Memorial Day at the Indiana Dunes and hanging out with all of my closest friends. The last thing you want to worry about is all of your makeup melting off.
Bobbi Brown BB Cream- Recently I have been into bb creams and they're pretty much all I use nowadays. I just think they can give the perfect amount of coverage anytime. I love wearing them during the warmer months when I don't care to use a full face of makeup.
I especially have been loving the Bobbi Brown BB Cream and it has really changed my outlook on all foundations. It has incredible blurring power without feeling dewy, dry, or anything worse. It really makes my face feel fresh and au natural.
Nars Travel Concealer-I haven't strayed away from this concealer at all. I love how creamy and full covering this concealer is. It doesn't crease and lasts all day long. I am really considering purchasing a full size one.
Mac Studio Fix Powder- I also have been using this powder so much. I switch back between this and the Coty Airspun Powder when I want to bake my under eyes or not use pressed powder. This is great for travel as it has a compartment for a sponge. I love how matte and oil free it makes my face. Really great for the warmer months.
Too Faced Hangover Replenishing Primer- I just tried this out about a month ago and have really fallen to love it. It smells like paradise and palm trees while also creating the most smooth and makeup ready skin. While I have never had a hangover, I'm convinced that this could help revive anyone who need a wake up call. The scent is perfect for this time of year and it is great for traveling.
Bobbi Brown Color Corrector- Normally, I don't use correctors, but recently I have found that this Bobbi Brown corrector really helps to brighten and correct imperfections when I get bad zits or bags under my eyes.
Stila Bronzing Beauty Balm- To be honest, I was weary of using this at first because I don't like liquid anything, however, I dab a bit onto my Beauty Blender and then onto my cheeks and love the dewy J Lo glow! Who doesn't want that?
Anastasia Dip Brow Pomade- This pomade has been in my collection for a while and I still continue to use it because it does a tremendous job at sculpting out my brows. I skip the eye brow mascara and solely use this with an angled brush.
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara- A classic and one of my favorites, this mascara is a given especially when you want butterfly lashes. I love the sample size because it's easier to get all of your lashes with the smaller applicator.
Maybelline Color Tattoo in Inked in Pink- I have had this eyeshadow for so long, but I can't bare to just toss such a great shade. This rose gold cream shadow is great as one color all across the lid. Spring is the best for colors on the face and I think this looks so elegant with eyeliner and mascara.
Ysl Lipstick in Rouge Rose- Last, but not least, I do think that a pop of color on the lips does a girl wonders. Sometimes I prefer nudes, but this Ysl shade has me dreaming. I love coral lips and this smooth lipstick will brighten any neutral eye look. I didn't wear this with the pink shadow, but I'm sure it'll look good with just about anything.
What's been your spring makeup pick?
My style has always been minimal from the gecko. I love when surfaces are neat and clean. I am definitely not a fan of clutter or junk that "looks like decor," but really isn't. I thought I would share one side of my bed to share what I normally put on my bedside table.
I have actually been inspired by the ever-so-great, Kate La Vie, to show my nightstand. She had a post where she would give advice and tips as to how you can rearrange decor on it for a desired look, which I thought was very creative and original.
Hanging Prints and Artwork
Above my side table, I have these little prints that I found off of Pinterest and got inspired by Temporary Secretary, another great blogger. She had them hanging from cute wash tape and I found this gold striped tape from the Target Dollar Spot (of course).
I think these prints can be great to have at college in your dorm or just hanging up in your home or apartment. They really modernize the space and add pops of color to the walls.
Staying on the Target theme, a lot of what I have on my side table is from Target. I just love that store so much. The "Hello Love" card is also from the dollar section.
Add Fresh or Faux Flowers
My dad always tells me that "life is too short not to buy yourself flowers" and he is right. I think everyone should purchase themselves a bouquet every now and then. It adds color and makes the place feel less dull. I love how they can make my room smell so fresh. Even picking some from your garden and plopping them into a mason jar can make all the difference to a side table.
Add a Cute, Organizational Tray or Plate
If you're worried about clutter or where to put your jewelry, lotion, or glasses at night, try to use a decorative tray or dish to store those items. It looks way more organized and put together. I found this little wooden tray at, obviously, Target.
I love to have my Bath and Body Works Bergamot Mint candle and my cute little foxy relic I got for a birthday one year. If you are unsure of where to put things, trays come in handy and create a space to put that stuff.
Whenever I look at my side table, I always wonder how I can improve it or make it look better. It will always be a constant change and I will add things and subtract things. The beauty of Feng Shui, "the art of placement" has always been on my mind whenever I look at my room and have doubts about the placing of certain things. Do you guys ever feel that way?
I made it. For all four years of high school, I cannot believe that it's finally over. On May, 21st, this past Sunday, I graduated from York High School. What an amazing journey it has been and I am incredibly ecstatic and anxious to see what the next four years will bring. I am truly thankful for everyone who has unconditionally supported me and who has made my high school career worth while. I wouldn't say that it's been a high school musical, but I do think that it has made me appreciate many great things about my experience there.
This post is just your usual thanking post and reflection post. It might not be as interesting as many of my other ones, but for my personal keeping, I would like this post to just be an entire reflection of my high school experience: addressing the goods, the bads, and the uglies.
Posing with my just graduated from college sister, Melissa, and my father who is a Dean at her college in Chicago, have both supported me and given me so much love. Thanks to my English professor (now Dean) dad for always spelling and grammar checking my English papers and also giving me a ton of dad advice because you just do. I know I can count on you for always answering my philosophically irrelevant questions.
Mel, thank you for being my guidance counselor throughout my stressful times and always being the derp you are. I can't wait to see what you do beyond college and I know that you will accomplish all of your hopes and dreams when they come to you. No matter what challenges you face in the real world, I know you will always do amazing things with your writing.
Obviously I can't forget my beautiful mama. She has truly been my rock throughout all of my school endeavors and I am beyond blessed to have you in my life as a supporter and everyday cheerleader. Also, for telling me to save my money and to make my bed every day. We have been through many ups and downs, but I always know that you will be there for me no matter what.
Finally, to my "little" sister Emily, I am so beyond proud of how grown up you've become. No matter the annoyances or shenanigans you pull, the ukulele playing at 10 o'clock at night, the screaming, or anything else, all in all, you have really impressed me. Thank you for taking all of these incredible photos, especially at prom. I know I put you through some tough times, but that's just what big sisters do, even if you're 5'11. We will be buddies forever and ever. I am so excited to see what your future brings as you flower into an amazing young woman. Yes, woman.
In my time my time at York, I have achieved a few awards: the State Commendation toward Biliteracy for my knowledge and accomplishments with Spanish, the Presidential Award towards Educational Achievement, and the monetary award granted from the entire English department at my school, the Corrine Johnson Scholarship of $500. It was a huge award that I was incredibly honored to receive. Especially since they mentioned my blog and how dedicated to writing I am. I just goes to show how much this blog has truly made an impact in my life.
For anyone reading this, I thank you whole heartedly for supporting all that I have put passion towards and have worked hard for. Not only has this journey been bittersweet, but so self fulfilling and I am ready for whatever comes next. It's not everyday you just graduate high school, for anyone still in high school, I give you this; don't sweat the small stuff and enjoy it. You get one high school experience and it truly is what you make of it. I spent most of it stressing about stupid stuff that doesn't even affect me now. Obviously get good grades and go to class, but one fail or two, move on. Life will bring you many failures and uptakes--embrace them.
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