End of the Year Beauty Favorites

I haven’t made a beauty post in a little while but, I wanted to write one for this week’s post. There have been a few products and things that I’ve been enjoying for the latter part of the year, and I thought I would share.

Tom Ford Lip Color in 16 Scarlet Rouge

As the name would suggest, this shade is a vivid scarlet. It applies smoothly and has a satin finish. A really nice shade for this time of year, and honestly, I’ve been wearing this when I’m feeling festive at home.

bareMinerals Lashtopia Mega Volume Mineral-Based Mascara

This mascara has been a pleasant surprise. This mascara gives my lashes a fluttery look and with no smudging nor flaking throughout the day. While I generally go for drugstore mascaras, I do like this one a lot.

Shiseido Eyelash Curler

Up until recently, I never thought much about eyelash curlers. I’ve heard good things about this classic eyelash curler from Shiseido. I decided to try it, despite my belief that eyelash curlers don’t make a huge difference and are generally a waste of time. But wow, was I wrong! This makes mascara application smoother and keeps lashes curled throughout the day. Overall, this tool in combination with the bareMinerals mascara has been 👍

Cover FX The Perfect Highlighting Palette in Light-Medium

I was looking to get a highlighting palette with both cream and powder highlighters. I found this from Cover FX. Since I got this, it’s all I’ve been using for highlighter. I like the pearly-champagne shade Celestial for this time of year. I haven’t tried the golden shade called Moonlight yet, but I imagine it would be great in the summertime. I like to apply the cream first, then apply the corresponding powder for a lovely highlight. But you can use the cream or powder separately for a less intense look.

Isle of Paradise Self-Tanning Drops in Medium

I’ve always been wary of using self-tanner and having the end result look disastrous. But this self-tanner is incredibly easy to use. I just mix it with my unscented body lotion and apply. I personally use about six drops to give myself a golden glow. I also love that I can use this with lotion I already own. Which allows me to control the level of tan I want. And as for the smell, some people have said this is unscented, but I think there’s a slight fake tan mixed with a floral fragrance. But nothing overbearing which is great! If you’re a novice to self-tanning like I am, you should definitely give this a shot.

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

I’m pretty late to the hype around this product. However, every time I would go to purchase it, it was always sold out. It’s quite a scary looking product as it appears red on the skin. I’ve only used this a couple of times (which is a good thing considering its potency) but I’m impressed. My skin feels smoother and looks noticeably “brighter” for lack of a better word, the next day. Another win from The Ordinary. And definitely, follow the directions when using this product, and it could be a bit too strong if you have never used acids for exfoliating the skin. A good one that I like is their Glycolic Acid 7% Toner.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post on some of the beauty favorites I found towards the end of this year. Have you used any of these products before? Also, there won’t be a post next week as I will be taking the time to relax at home and catch-up with some of the people in my life from far away. I hope you have an amazing and safe week! Thank you for reading!

Where else to find me: Instagram

How I Reset and Get My Life Together

Life can be very overwhelming, especially with this particular holiday season. I’ve personally been in a funk and overwhelmed at the same time. When that happens, I like to take the time to reset and regroup. Here are a few things that I do to accomplish that.

Get refreshed

Sometimes it’s difficult when you’re feeling meh to get yourself off of the couch and do something as simple as taking a shower. As hard as it may be, I always feel better afterward, and it’s the simplest way to show myself some care. Besides that, I like to do my skincare routine. Overall, taking care of yourself will set you up for success in taking on whatever you need to.

Get “put-together”

This is the time where I will usually put together an outfit, the only requirement being that it’s not pajamas. I am of the group of people who believe what you’re wearing can shift your mindset. And if I want to, I’ll wear some makeup.

Clean your space

It’s so easy to look at your to-do list or see your messy space and feel overwhelmed. Do something that will be quick to accomplish. I would suggest doing a small task like making the bed or tidying up your desk. You will feel better, and your space is now neater, and it might build up your momentum to complete another task. Also, don’t put too much pressure on yourself to get everything done. Maybe a few minutes is all you can devote to this, and that’s perfect.

Make a realistic to-do list

I personally think lists are a great way to keep track of things, and I don’t like to commit the things I need to do to my memory. So make a realistic list for the day of what you want to accomplish. I emphasize the word realistic here. When I kept my to-do list’s smaller and focused, I noticed I was more likely to complete the list. And on another important note, if you aren’t able to get every single thing on your list done, that’s okay too.

Journaling

Journaling is a great way to reflect on life in general. Write down how you’re feeling – the good and the bad. Write it down! Additionally, your journal is also a place to write down your goals and take note of the small steps you’ve made or are planning to make to achieve your goals. But really, there’s no “right way” or “one way” to use a journal. Any notebook can be used for this but if you’re looking for a journal with a structure to it, there are tons of options. I’ve personally used the One Line a Day book before.

Resetting and getting your life together is all about doing the small things to get you back on track. So my steps might differ from yours. But listen to your needs and do what’s best for you. Let me know what you do to reset. Thank you for reading!

Where else to find me: Instagram

10 Things I No Longer Buy

As the holiday season approaches, and shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday are just around the corner. I’ve been thinking about shopping and my lack of desire to really participate this year. I wouldn’t say I’m a minimalist by any stretch. I still buy things and still enjoy things, with some of them being a little on the pricey side. However, I have been making a more conscious effort to own fewer things. One of the reasons is financial. I want to continue saving money and being more intentional with my money. Secondly, I’m starting to have the desire to own less stuff. I’m asking myself which of my physical possessions truly add value to my life? What are things that are simply there taking up space? As I attempt to approach a more minimal mindset, these are things that I have stopped buying.

1. Notebooks and stationery

I used to collect stationery, whether it was notebooks, notepads, post-it pads. A lot of these items had cute or interesting designs on them. And many of them are so small, so how much space can they really take up? As it turns out, small pads and books can add up to big piles. Many times these notebooks will only be partially filled. I’ve been sticking to a new rule for myself, I can’t buy a new notebook or stationery item until I have used up my current one.

2. Impulsive beauty purchases

It was so tempting to walk into a Sephora or the beauty section of Target just to browse and “see what they have” and end up with products you didn’t need. Nowadays, it’s more tempting to add a few things to my online cart while shopping. But I’ve recently been more content with the makeup that I already have, even opting for more minimal or makeup-free days compared to years before. And it’s important to remember these products will eventually expire, so I’ve adopted the use it or lose it mentality. And in general, I was never big on drastically changing the products to my skincare routine. My skin likes consistency and using fewer products, which has also been great for my wallet.

3. Clothing I’ll never wear

I think with this year especially, I’ve realized there are quite a few items in my wardrobe that I’ve barely worn or have no use for. I like wearing plain and simple things, like jeans, t-shirts, comfortable sweaters, and the occasional comfy dress that you can easily throw on. Not only do I feel good wearing these things, but they fit my lifestyle and the activities I do day-to-day. I don’t need to continue buying clothing that doesn’t reflect my lifestyle. I’ve decluttered all of my super-fancy, tops, dresses, and heels. I didn’t even wear heels before the pandemic! Why were these things in my closet in the first place?

4. Duplicate items

As much as I enjoy my blue jeans, there is such a thing as too many. I’m definitely guilty of having too many of certain things. I find this to be particularly true with clothing. Whether it’s jeans or t-shirts and I’ve made a point to stop purchasing more of these and instead use and appreciate what I already have.

5. Things that were purchased just because they were on sale

If I was planning on purchasing something and there happens to be a sale, I will definitely go ahead and buy it. And if I know of a sale coming up, I will wait until then to purchase the product I had planned for. Going forward, I will shop sales knowing what I’m going to buy. If I participate in the sale at all.

6. Candles and home fragrance

I love a good smelling candle, and I can appreciate the idea behind burning different scents for different seasons. I find myself only burning candles in the fall because I’m partial to musky and woody scents. But like stationery, it’s easy to collect them and sometimes ending up with some only partially used.

7. Books

I enjoy reading physical books, but I do not have space for a massive book collection. I also don’t typically re-read many books, so in most cases, there is no reason to keep a book once I’m finished. I’ve always been a fan of the library. In the last year or two, I discovered an app associated with my library that allows me to temporarily download or “check out” books and read them on a tablet. This allows me access to read newly released books, classics, and books from every genre. I highly recommend you find out if your local library has an app with a similar option because it’s a game-changer.

8. Shaving cream

I’ve seen this one on other people’s lists, and I have to agree, soap, shampoo, or conditioner work just as well!

9. Home decor

While I’m not a fan of a completely empty room I do like some decor to add character to a space. But I’m not collecting random knick-knacks, seasonal decor, or souvenirs that don’t add real value to me. I do have a few things that were given to me, and I consider them sentimental. But I find the vast majority of decor out there ends up becoming “white noise” where it goes unnoticed and is simply taking up space. It also means having more things to work around while cleaning.

10. Unnecessary hair products

I’m considerably lazy when it comes to doing my hair, and I don’t like spending a lot of time on it. My haircare inventory consists of shampoo, leave-in conditioner spray, a hair mask, and dry shampoo. However, I could honestly narrow it down to the two shampoos and the conditioner.

Thanks for reading this post about the things I no longer buy. What are some things that you have stopped buying? Do you disagree with any of the items on my list?

Where else to find me: Instagram

My Cozy Fall Night Routine 🍂

As the seasons change and as it gets darker earlier, I find myself wanting to incorporate a routine of rest and relaxation. I feel like this is especially important, considering the stress of life. These are the things I’ve been doing this fall season to help me relax and bring me that warm and cozy feeling.

Do a quick tidy up

Even if you’re sitting at a desk and it doesn’t seem like you’re moving things around, you’d be surprised how things seem slowly move out of place during the workday. It usually only takes a few minutes, and I like knowing that my workspace is reset and ready to go for tomorrow.

Unplug for a while

I feel this is especially important if you are working from home or have been staring at a screen all day. Take a few minutes or more to get away from your screens and do something else. When I do this, I start to feel a little bit better, and it sets me in the mindset of moving on to something else.

Get outside

If I haven’t had the chance to get outside yet, this would be a perfect time. Typically, I go on a short walk, and it’s been great to de-stress and unwind while getting exercise. It also gives me a chance to clear my head with no distractions.

Eat something good

After a long day of hard work having, a delicious meal feels well deserved. I usually have an idea ahead of time on what I’m going to eat for dinner. Let me know if you’re a planner too, or do you just wing it? With this fall season in mind, I’ve personally been enjoying a lot of hearty, comfort foods. This roasted parmesan rosemary potato recipe has been an amazing side dish! What are your favorite comfort foods?

Clean up

After eating a good meal, I like to clean up right after, doing the dishes and cleaning surfaces used for eating or cooking. After that, it’s usually a good time to do my skincare routine, where I will use skincare products that feel like a treat for my skin. I like the Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial Mask for exfoliating. Or I’ll use the Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Charcoal Mask if my skin is breaking out. Since it is getting colder, I’ve been using The Ordinary Plant-Derived Squalane for some added moisture. My skin feels great after using this product. I’ve finally used it up, along with some other products, which you can read about here. After this, I like to put on some comfy clothes, and by doing this, I really feel like I can relax.

Read or watch

By this point, I’ll usually either read or watch something entertaining. I recently re-watched the Harry Potter series. There’s something about that series that makes me think of fall, and I know I’m not the only one. But I’ve currently started reading World Made by Hand by James Howard Kunstler, and while I’m not too far in, I’d say it’s interesting and slightly creepy. If you’re looking to read a dystopian novel, check this one out. What have you been reading lately? I’m always looking for recommendations!

And of course, with cold and chilly evenings, hot drinks are necessary. I’ve discovered this caffeine-free Orange Spice tea from Good & Gather, which you can find at Target. I also like drinking apple cider and hot cocoa – the classics.

And like my workspace, I like to make sure the things I’ve used this evening are put away and that my space is cleaned up and ready for the next day before heading off to sleep.

What is your favorite part of your nighttime routine? Thanks for reading!

Where else to find me: Instagram

Feeling the Blues

It was very therapeutic to zone out and draw. Hope you are all having a good day.

My Makeup Collection if I Could Only Keep One Thing

I recently came across this blog post from KatieEmmaBeauty and thought I would do my take on it! The products featured in this post are basically my all-time favorites and are the ones that I keep going back to.

I was thinking about choosing a palette when it came down to deciding eyeshadow. I’ve been using single eyeshadows more than palettes, and it has become my preference for a while now. So I’m going to cheat on this question by choosing a cream and a powder eyeshadow. 😉

Tom Ford Cream Color For Eyes in Spice

Probably my favorite single eyeshadow! It’s the perfect metallic bronze shade and can be built up or sheered out depending on the kind of look you’re going for. I like the consistency of this product as I don’t feel like it drags across my eyelids, but a smooth and even application.

Wet n’ Wild Color Icon Eyeshadow Single in Nutty

On the other side of the price spectrum, this single eyeshadow is one of my favorites. It’s a cool taupe brown, and it’s honestly better than some higher-end eyeshadows I’ve tried.

As for mascara, I wouldn’t say I’m faithful to one kind or brand, so I couldn’t pick one. I do like L’Oreal and Maybelline mascaras. It seems like every time I go to purchase a new mascara, either of these brands will have something new to try.

Urban Decay Afterglow 8-Hour Powder Highlighter in Sin

This is the perfect everyday highlighter if you’re looking for something with more intensity than the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powders but less intensity than the Becca Shimmering Skin Perfectors.

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer in Luminous Bronze Light

I think if all of my bronzers disappeared, I would probably repurchase this one. It’s a beautiful bronzer that gives a natural-looking warmth. It’s hard to go overboard with this bronzer.

NARS Powder Blush in Amour

I love the bright flush of pink this shade gives. I have to be careful when applying so I don’t go overboard. It doesn’t take much to get the job done with this product, so this will probably last me a while. In general, I really like NARS blushes, and I would definitely keep a blush from them if I could only have one blush in my collection.

It Cosmetics CC+ Cream with SPF 50

This foundation or CC cream covers well without looking too overdone. If I set it with a setting powder or spray, it will wear well throughout the day.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer (not pictured)

I’m currently going without this concealer because I’m using something else, but I really miss using this. It has perfect coverage without looking too cakey, especially in areas like underneath the eyes.

Soap and Glory One Heck of a Blot Mattifying Powder

This does a great job of setting my makeup and isn’t too expensive. It keeps my complexion from looking shiny, and it’s not cakey or powdery looking on the skin.

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Stockholm

Choosing a lip product was a difficult one, but if I had to pick only one, it would be this. I think this shade goes with a lot of different makeup looks, plus I love the feel and formula of the Soft Matte Lip Creams. Also, this is one of the few full-sized lip products that I have used up. A really close runner up would be something from Bite Beauty, probably their lip crayons or lipsticks. And like Katie Emma’s answer, probably MAC lipsticks, too. So much for just choosing one.

What would your makeup collection look like if you could only keep one thing of each category? Thanks for reading!

Warm Places

Fall Makeup Favorites

As the cooler weather approaches, I’ve been gravitating toward the darker colors of fall. These are just a few products that I’ve been liking when I feel like wearing makeup.

When it gets a little colder, I reach for more subtle highlighters in favor of more intense highlighters from brands like Becca. One I like in particular is the Essence Pure Nude Highlighter in 01 Be My Highlight, it’s a baked champagne highlighter with a subtle sheen. I’ve been really impressed by the quality of this, it’s on par with the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder in Incandescent Light.

Speaking of Hourglass, I do enjoy their powder products. I really like the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Mood Exposure for the fall. It’s a wearable plummy-pink shade with a slight sheen. If you want to skip highlighter, Hourglass blushes are a good two-in-one product. I just like the extra highlighter! Also, I highly recommend a mini-size version of Hourglass powders since it takes forever to use a powder product.

I have two different lipsticks that I reach for in the fall, one of them is the Bite Beauty Amuse Bouche Lipstick in Pepper for a dark mauve. I love the formula of Bite lip products in general, and I’ve never tried a lip product of theirs that I didn’t like. Aside from Bite, I like the MAC Lipstick in Velvet Teddy. This lip product was more hyped-up a few years ago, but I think it’s a classic shade that works well for many people. It’s the perfect brown lipstick in my opinion.

I have a new mascara that I’ve been liking, it’s the Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara in After Midnight which is a black shade. This technically isn’t a fall favorite but, it’s a recent one. I haven’t had much experience using a a “clean” mascara but this one has been really impressive at both lengthening and volumizing my eyelashes. Without mascara my lashes are nothing special. I would highly consider buying this one again in the future when this tube is done. If If I’m wearing eyeshadow these days, I’m not going to reach for a big palette full of choices. I want something simple and thought out for me. That’s when the NARS Eyeshadow Duo in Kalahari has been perfect. On one side is a taupe and the other a pinky-brown. I think the colors can look quite dark on the eyes, which is a look I like this time of year. I can easily create a simple look with just two eyeshadows. Or I can use one to keep things even more simple. I highly recommend NARS Eyeshadow Duos, I did a blog post on my favorite products from NARS where I go into detail of another eyeshadow duo if you’re interested.

I’ve been enjoying a simple makeup look for the fall weather ahead. I’m also making an effort to use the products I already own. What things have you been liking for fall? Thanks for reading!

Fresh Greens

Felt like drawing some green leaves one last time before it is officially fall!

Review: Spring & Vine Oatmeal Moisturizing Shampoo Bar

I’ve been thinking about ways to reduce waste in my life, and one area that could be improved is my beauty products. I came across the Spring & Vine Oatmeal 2-in-1 Moisturizing Shampoo Bar and purchased it as an alternative to traditional shampoo. It is mostly plastic-free, aside from the plastic sleeve containing the bar within the cardboard box. This is my first experience using a shampoo bar, so thought I would try it out and let you know my thoughts.

To start off this bar looks like an ordinary bar of soap, but if you look closely, there is an embossed leaf pattern down its horizontal middle. I did use this before taking photos (whoops! I just couldn’t wait to try it). This product is pretty straightforward to use, I like to wet the shampoo bar under the water and apply it in a sweeping motion on my scalp and between sections of my hair. As I did this, the shampoo started to lather somewhat, and the experience was like using traditional shampoo. Rinse clean and you’re done!

As the packaging notes, this is a shampoo plus conditioner. Of course, this didn’t feel like any traditional conditioner I’ve used in the past, but this has moisturizing shea butter and jojoba seed oil so I never felt the need to use a traditional conditioner after using this product.

I’ve used this a few times now, and I can safely say my hair has always come out feeling clean and balanced. It’s not dried out, not overly hydrated, and I didn’t feel any build-up or residue on my scalp. It felt strange to run a solid object through my hair with the expectation of cleaning it. But this solid shampoo really met my expectations!

This shampoo bar is PETA Certified Cruelty-Free and Vegan, in addition to being free of synthetic fragrance. The packaging states the formula is supposed to be as concentrated as a traditional 12.6 oz bottle of shampoo. In terms of my personal usage, I don’t find that I’m going through it quickly. As for the price, this can be purchased at Target for $9.99.

Overall, I would recommend checking out this shampoo bar from Spring & Vine! Along with reducing your environmental impact from the packaging and formulation of more traditional shampoo, you’re also getting two products in one. This saves you time and cuts out extra products, all while reducing your water consumption. Spring & Vine also have Volumizing, Scalp Soothing, and Balanced Clean in their line of shampoo bars to cater to different needs. Have you tried a solid shampoo bar before? Thank you for reading! Stay well!