Okay, I know I just did one of these but I have been wanting to do a post about beauty products for awhile. I'll be honest, i've had this list saved in my drafts since I started blogging. I didn't post it because I haven't been able to find a cleanser that was worth sharing and can you really make a beauty post without a cleanser?
Ya'll. I found it. This list is not vast, but when I tell you these are the best - I mean it. I've tried so so so many creams, cleansers, serums, and makeups. I won't lie to you, I am a tad lazy when it comes to my skin regimen but ever since I turned 30, my skin has reminded me that it needs my attention.
Here you have it, the golden products. My favorites. The only ones that truly make a difference.
1. Starling CALM | Anti-redness cleanser and Starling Hyaluronic Serum
I'll start with the newest brand in my line-up. I am in LOVE with this skin-care
line and have seen changes in my face in just a week. I know what you're thinking - she's crazy. There's no way a cleanser can be that good. It is. It absolutely is. The best part ... it's plant-based and organic and chemical-free and made for sensitive skin and vegan and allergen-free and cruelty-free AND WOMAN OWNED AND OPERATED. I probably could have written a whole post just on this brand and it's possible that I only wrote the post so I could rave about this one item but here is the take away. I have tried A LOT of cleansers - most recently, I was so desperate that I even tried a facial cleanser for men. All I wanted was brighter, healthier skin combined with something to clear up my resilient acne. Starling has brought my skin back to life in just one week. It's smooth, moisturized, and maybe even a little bit glowy? It feels brand new and the only thing I have changed is using this cleanser daily. I'm hooked. I also recommend getting the Hyaluronic Serum. I haven't used it as consistently but absolutely love the way my skin feels when I do remember it. What are you waiting for? Go. Buy. Now.
2. Arbonne Mascara

Oh, this mascara. I used to use that mascara that had like four different steps to it - I can't for the life of me remember what it was called but Janet got me hooked on this one and I am so grateful for it. I love the wand and the lightness of this stuff - you don't get any chunky stuff and it elongates your lashes just as much as the ones with primers, fibers, and a bunch of work that nobody really wants to put in for some mascara (remember when I said I am lazy with my face...). I have been using Arbonne for probably about 4 years now and haven't found any reason to look for something new.
Disclaimer: I have recently been informed that there is a new formulation for the mascara that may not be as good?? {{ insert weeping emoji here }} If you've tried it - let me know!
3. MAC Gel Eyeliner | Blacktrack

This one is one of those products that doesn't get enough attention. The one I have been using for years and years, but never realize how important it is to me until I have to use something else. I've tried the gel eyeliners from STILA, smashbox, e.l.f., and a handful more because I was searching for something more affordable. Somewhere along the way I decided this one was absolutely worth the splurge. This eyeliner has the perfect consistency and never fails to last me through the night, even when I go out dancing in the middle of the summer. My favorite part is that one of these little pots lasts months and it never dries out. IMO, a good eyeliner is the basis to a great makeover and this one has never let me down.
* Update: I'll be honest, I didn't know MAC Cosmetics had so much controversy surrounding their brand (until right now) and would absolutely love suggestions for lines to explore. I also use their longwear concealer and studio fix foundation powder. Drop me a line in my inbox and help me up my beauty game!
4. BECCA Primer

Five years of searching for a primer and finally (just three months ago) I found BECCA. If you love a primer with a matte finish - this is the one, my friend. Not only does this small tube last, the magical little product inside keeps your face (and makeup) oil-free for an entire night. I have always struggled with sweat and oil causing my makeup to turn into liquid which made my face look much shinier than I cared for. I tried many other primers (many, many others) and it wasn't until I took the time to really research that I found this one sitting on so many of the "best of" lists. So, I tried it and I am beyond thrilled with what it has done for the longevity of my makeup through hot summer days, long nights, and the occasional date night - this stuff has kept my makeup fresh. 100% recommend.
5. BH Cosmetics Eyeshadow Palettes
These might just be my best kept secret. I feel like you don't hear much about bh cosmetics and i'm not so sure why. But their shadow palettes have been my favorite for years. The colors look amazing on and they last through any kind of weather and the longest of days. When I am being a total rebel and sleep with my make-up on (I know it's horrible for your skin - don't judge me), I sometimes wake up looking like I just did my makeup. That's how amazing these shadows are. I did just give both of mine to my sister because they were something like 40-color palettes and I used the colors I liked (which are all just shades of brown or pink - im so boring) so I advise getting the smaller ones if you tend to use the same colors everyday. If you're adventurous, get the big ol' palettes that cost under 15 dollars and they will last you FOREVER.
Ahhhh, a full page of things that make my face look and feel better. Once again, I was not paid for any of these opinions nor was I given any of these products for free. This is stuff that I joyfully spend my hard-earned money on because they make a difference in routine. Try them. I promise you will not be disappointed. And as always, if you have suggestions for better companies, better products, or even a better routine - please let me know! I am always willing to try something new!
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