Category Archives: Beauty

I had hoped to have this done before the new year, but better late than never, right? Last December I told you about the beauty products from 2011 I was either lusting, loving or leaving behind. Perhaps because I got married this year and took extra care, I’m pretty content with my current daily beauty routine, so this time around I’m going to share with you just the loves from 2012. So here goes.

1. Cetaphil Restoraderm vs. Aveeno Ultra-Calming lotion. This one is an exception. I’m a loyal Aveeno Ultra Calming lotion user. I’ve switched a few times to see what else is out there but I’ve always gone back. It reduces redness and leaves me feeling fresh, calm and clean. It’s truly one-of-a-kind. But with a history of dermatitis/rosacea, I find Cetaphil Restoraderm is the best solution for breakouts and winter irritation.
2. Laura Mercier Secret Camoflage. One little dab of this miracle combo and that pesky pimple is no more. Trust me. It’s the best concealer out there.
3. Chanel Rouge Coco Hydrating Creme Lip Color in Paradis. Remember this one? I wore it on my wedding day. I adore the color and it lasts for hours, especially with the matching lip pencil (in Rose Corail).
4. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer. I use this in matte to prep my lids before applying eyeshadow. It’s the best formula I’ve found that holds your eye makeup in place the entire day. I use a little under the eyes, too, to combat bags and dark circles.
5. NARS Deep Throat. I currently do not own another blush color. This is my every day, every night, every every. I love it!
6. NARS Lip Gloss in Chihuahua. The first lip gloss that stays without that icky sticky feeling and doesn’t taste so bad either. I don’t leave home without it.
7. Dove Go Sleeveless. Say goodbye to razor burn! I’m not kidding. From my face to my toes, my skin is extremely sensitive and for the last 30 years I’ve failed at finding a solution to irritation caused by shaving. Until now. Finally!
8. Stila Sun Bronzing Powder in Shade 1. A matte bronzer is a must for my year-round beauty routine. It’s more natural than most and doesn’t leave me feeling orange-y and fake.
9. Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Wear Foundation in 1.2. Last year I told you how much I loved Make Up Forever’s foundation. I was wrong. I am a huge fan of MUF, but my wedding makeup artist convinced me to rethink the foundation. This Smashbox foundation lasts my entire work day, doesn’t gleam under the flashbulbs and provides complete coverage even on my worst days.
10. Make Up Forever Smoky Lash. For fuller lashes, look no further. I bought this for my sister over Christmas and now she’s a convert. Two coats for voluptuous lashes!
11. Anastasia Brow Wiz in Caramel. If I was stranded on a deserted island and could only bring two items from my cosmetics bag, this brow pencil would be one of them (yes, I realize that’s ridiculous). The fine tip retractable pencil allows me to very carefully fill in the gaps and an attached spooley brush is super convenient. It’s amazing the difference a little brow pencil can make.

Just so you know, no one paid me for this review. I just thought I’d share my experiences for those of you on the hunt for great beauty buys. I hope you found it helpful!