1. the original beautyblender® - $20
I admit, I was so skeptical about buying this sponge for 20 bucks. I just couldn't justify the price tag, but I decided to pull the trigger anyway. Find any YouTube beauty vlogger and chances are they use the beautyblender. It really does make your foundation look seemless and I actually end up using less product than when I applied with a traditional makeup sponge. If you do purchase one, just remember to read the instructions on how to use it and keep it clean!
2. tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Full Coverage Foundation - $39
This foundation has been in my rotation for 3 years now. That is the longest I've ever sticked to one beauty product. I like to change things up with other types of makeup, but this cream foundation stays on all day and keeps oil at bay so I can't stay away. The coverage is great and a little goes a long way, so you'll end up saving some money in the long run. Another plus is that it comes in a wide variety of shades for every skin tone.
3. Lancôme GRANDIÔSE Mascara - $32
Don't be fooled by this crazy-looking mascara. The bend in the wand really does make a difference. I have always loved Lancôme mascaras, but this one takes the cake as my favorite. It might even be my favorite higher priced mascara. It takes practice to maneuver the wand, but once you get the hang of it the bend helps you see everything you are doing and twist and turn to get every last lash. The formula is another thing I like about it. Whenever I wear this, I never see flakes under my eyes at the end of the day and it never gets clumpy! Well worth the price.
Rollerballs are perfect if you can't shell out the $80+ it costs for a full bottle of perfume. Sephora has lots of fragrances in rollerball form, so you can pick out the one you like or buy multiple as they typically cost around $25. They are easy to throw in your backpack or purse and even a small clutch for a night out. You can also get by airport security with these since they comply with TSA regulations.
5.Too Faced Boudoir Eyes Palette - $36
I usually hate eyeshadow palettes, or any kind of makeup palette for that matter. I usually buy one for a hefty price tag and only use about 3 or 4 colors. This one however, I use every single color on a pretty consistent basis. The colors range from pretty neutrals to darker shades to create a smoky eye. The price isn't too high either, so it is definitely worth a shot!
6. SEPHORA COLLECTION Face the Day Brush Set - $49
If you are still using the little brushed and applicators that come inside your eyeshadows and powders, you need to drop everything you're doing and go buy a brush set! Seriously though, you will be amazed at how different it will make your makeup look. I just got a nice brush set for Christmas and I will never go back to using the little foam things that come with the makeup you buy at the drugstore. Quality brushes transfer color much better and your complexion will appear smoother and seamless. I suggest getting the most expensive set you can get with whatever budget you have. Also, make sure that most of the brushes in the set are appropriate for your makeup routine. For example, if you don't use or like gel eyeliner, then try to find a set without an eyeliner brush or smudging tool.
7. SEPHORA COLLECTION Sculpt: Curling Iron - $40
I swear by my curling wand. I could never get the hang of using a curling iron with a clip. My curls would never come out even and when I did get a good curl, there was always a visible kink where I placed the clip. With a wand, the curls come out flawless and I can curl my very long hair in about 10 minutes. This Sephora Collection wand is reasonably priced and is the perfect size for creating beachy waves or bigger, looser curls. It heats up very quickly and gets very hot, so for the first couple times you use this wear the heat-resistant glove.
8. St. Tropez Self Tan Express Bronzing Mousse - $44
I cringe every time I see a woman buying self tanner from a drugstore, with maybe the exception being Jergens' gradual tanning lotion. I've used the Jergens lotion before and have had good results, but it builds a tan over a longer period of time, so it doesn't get too orange. The others just leave you feeling like an Oompa Loompa. If you are going to use a one-and-done, at-home tanner, then you have to spend a little money. St. Tropez is the holy grail of self tanners because their formulation is unbeatable. The tans never come out orange and actually smell good unlike the ones from a drugstore. To beat streaks and uneven or darker patches, make sure to use a tanning mitt, which can be bought via Amazon, and exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate!
