Makeup has always been a hassle for me–something I hate having to put on, but also necessary to keep me looking somewhat put together. When I swapped my foundation for tinted sunscreen a few years ago, I felt like I could actually enjoy my day while wearing “makeup.” I add a few more elements to my five-minute makeup routine, check it out below!
Before I apply my makeup, I do my full skincare routine. Once that is all done, I start by applying the tinted sunscreen on my face and neck…I just use my hands to apply it. Next, I put on under eye concealer. I have been using the Giorgio Armani Power Fabric Concealer in Shade 2. I cannot say enough good things about this concealer. I have dark circles and this concealer really makes them disappear. I apply the concealer using the wand it comes with and then I blend it using a Blending Sponge.
Next, I apply the bronzer. I love the Hoola Benefit Bronzer because it acts as a bronzer and contouring kit all in one. I use the brush the bronzer comes with to bronze and contour my face. Then, I apply another layer of concealer and finally, I add the Blush. I really love the blushes by Bobbi Brown because they don’t irritate my skin and I think they come in the most beautiful colors. To blend all of the makeup I use the large Luxie brush and I just love it.
I really only wear mascara for holidays and major events (even during a non-pandemic year) so I didn’t include it in this routine. From beginning to end, it should take you only five minutes to apply. It will leave you looking fresh-faced and dewy for the whole day!
If you thought Black Friday and Cyber Monday were fun, then prepare yourselves for the Bluemercury Semi-Annual sale! Bluemercury is my favorite destination for skin care because they carry all of the best brands and for the next few days you can get SkinCeuticals, Jo Malone and more for up to 20 percent off!!
I normally shop this sale with my work bestie, but this year, sadly I will be shopping alone. When I lived in Houston, the Rice Village Bluemercury was about a 10 minute drive from our offices in the medical center and we were known to spend our lunches there. Since I haven’t been to a Bluemercury since the pandemic hit, I’m definitely in need of a re-stock and this sale couldn’t come at a better time! Here’s what I’ll be buying…
As you can see, my favorite skin care brand is SkinCeuticals. I started using SkinCeuticals about five years ago and it has totally transformed my skin. It is a bit of a splurge if you’ve been using over-the-counter products, but it is totally worth it. I’d recommend starting out with the CE Ferulic because it works for most skin types and it will really make your skin glow. I personally use all of the products I’ve listed on this page and will share a video on Instagram about how I use each item.
In addition to the Skinceuticals I’ll be stocking up on, I will also be loading up on my Kiehl’s body lotion…I use this twice a day all over my body and could not live without it. I also love the Kiehl’s Blue Astringent. My signature scent is the Jo Malone Earl Grey and Cucumber and am so happy I will be able to get it on sale. If you’re not familiar with this scent, it is so light and effervescent and makes you smell like you just left the spa.
With the holidays coming up, you might want to take this opportunity to stock up on candles as gifts for your friends, because who doesn’t love a candle?! My favorite candles are from Lafco. I think the scents are beautiful, they burn well and I love the fun names they give each candle like Cabana and Penthouse.
I hardly ever wear makeup so I love buying it on sale when I have to. I love NARS for blush, eyeshadow and absolutely love the afterglow lip balm. For primer and foundation, my go-to is Tom Ford. I’ve been wearing it for years and makes me look airbrushed when I wear it.
Whether you’re stocking up on beauty essentials for yourself or buying gifts for friends and family, this sale is the best place you can spend your money this month! I usually stock up on my beauty favorites in December during this sale and again in June when they have their other sale so I don’t have to buy these items full price.