I can’t believe I am writing this post with summer 2018 in the rear view already. Does anyone else feel like it just flew by? We had an incredible summer settling into our new home in Columbia and traveling to TX, NC, NYC, and Charleston. As the seasons change, I try to switch up my beauty regimen to accommodate the differences in the air and my skin. I also just love trying new products when I can. It has been awhile since I shared a beauty review with you, so in this post I am going to share what all I used this summer and which products I loved.
HAIR
Kristen Ess Shampoo & Conditioner
I was looking for a more budget friendly alternative to the Pureology Shampoo & Conditioner I had been using most of last year. After hearing great things about the Kristen Ess hair line, I decided to try it and I am so glad I did. The products are sulfate free and did not dry my hair out at all. They are also only $10 each which is very affordable. I definitely recommend trying.
I have never had any product leave my hair this soft and it smells incredible. It is AMAZING! I try to use this mask when I take a bath so that I can leave it in for the desired time. I bought the sample size to try after one of my fellow bloggers, Olivia Rink, recommended it on her blog and she has amazing hair! The sample is only $18 and worth every penny. I got about 5 uses out of it.
MAKEUP
This eyeliner really does stay all day, I’ve tested it on my longest days and it doesn’t budge. Therefore, now it’s the only one I use. It will not disappoint.
Bare Minerals Blush Color- “The One”
I’m the kind of person that can use the same blush for like two years. Lucky for me, I was gifted this blush and once I tried it, I used it in my makeup routine from then on. I love this shade on my skin tone and Bare Minerals is a great brand for combination skin like mine as well.
Laura Mercier Translucent Powder
I honestly was a little disappointed from the hype of this product. I have seen so many bloggers swear by it, but I didn’t really notice a difference when using it and my face still got very shiny throughout the day. It could just be my skin type, but I can’t say I recommend this powder, especially for the price.
I have used the Estee Lauder Double Wear for the last year and still love it. However my curiosity was sparked after the rave of the new Fenty line releasing this year and I was eager to try their long wear foundation. I really liked how it wore and the vast number of shades they have for every skin tone. It is not as full coverage or as matte as the Double Wear, but a great foundation for the days you want a lighter look or a more dewey glow.
This is my new favorite budget friendly lip gloss I found this summer. Normally I am not a big fan of glosses because they are sticky, but this one has a creamy texture. I love the shade “Eclair” and there are 34 shades to choose from!!
IT Cosmetics Universal Eyebrow Pencil
I have always had a hard time finding the perfect color brow pencil for my hair until now. It has the perfect natural shade and I love the attached brow brush. If you’re a brunette like me, it is absolutely worth a try, you will love it.
SKIN
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Cleanser
After using a similar cleanser from Neutrogena for years, I felt that sometimes it would dry my face out a little too much. When the hydro boost line came out, I immediately reached for this cleanser for morning and night. It truly is a great hydrating face wash. Shane and I both use it regularly and alternate with the occasional face scrub.
I have had so many people reach out to me or stop me in person and ask what makeup or skincare I use because my skin has changed that much this summer. About 6 months ago, I bought a magnifying mirror and was shocked at the lines and enlarged pores on my face. I hadn’t ever really used any skin care products other than treating acne in my youth and this was my wake up call to start wrinkle prevention in my 20’s. My skin has changed so much from adding this to my nightly routine and it is very affordable and worth every penny.
I have loved adding this scrub into my showers this summer. I came across this brand at my local grocery store and wanted to try it for exfoliating. It smells amazing and will make you skin SO soft.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunscreen
If I’m being totally honest, this is the only sunscreen I have used for the last 3 summers. Sunscreen is such a crucial part of safety and beauty, and with acne prone skin, this is the only one I’ll use.
I would love to hear any of your recommendations of beauty products that you love. Either leave me a comment below or comment on this post on Instagram where we can connect there! I appreciate you reading the blog today and I hope you found something new to try!
XO, Mattison
