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Writer's pictureClaire

Spring 2023 SEPHORA SALE FAVORITES


Ah, the Spring Sephora sale. The event in which our inner beauty gurus and inner coupon clippers unite to become our wallet's worst enemy. If you do not want nor have the means to shop the annual Spring Sephora sale, skip it and don't feel guilty about it. This sale is only a really good deal for people who have a Rouge status and get 20% off - if you do not, this could be another reason to skip because most brands offer deeper discounts than Sephora offers. However, if there are multiple items you are shopping for, it might be easier and cheaper to shop them at once from one store. Lastly, it's always a good time to restock a favorite item at a discount. I add to this running list every sale, so some of this might be repetitive to you - I will add all new items to the beginning of each section to make it easier for my regulars. You may notice some brands and products on this list I no longer support - I leave them on the list as I still get asked about them and know the reviews are helpful for some. Once I finish these products, I do not plan to repurchase them.


For Reference: My skin type is dry and sensitive. I prefer fragrance-free formulas due to my skin sensitivity. I have rosacea and melasma.

*If you want to support your favorite creators by shopping through their affiliate links, please check out in a browser, NOT in the Sephora app. The app will break the link, and the creators won't earn their commission. We all put in many hours prepping these shopping guides, and it means a lot to have you support us. Someone asked me this, so, as an FYI, whatever link you click last will get the "commission," so, no, you can't support multiple creators' links unless you place multiple orders, which is not worth the effort. Thank you in advance for shopping with me! It helps me keep this page going.


The Sephora Sale dates & discounts are as follows:


Rouge 20% off - 4/14 - 4/24

VIB 15% off - 4/18 - 4/24

Insider 10% off - 4/18 - 4/24

Sephora Collection 30% off - 4/14-4/24 all tiers


For the TLDR Version: Here is a full shop list of all the products listed below.


Let's begin!

Makeup

Lips

• Ami Colé Lip Treatment Oil - If you buy one thing at the sale, let it be this. This is the plushest cushiony, sumptuous, most comfortable lip oil I have ever used in my life. I have three of the four colors, and Bliss is my ride-or-die. It makes my lips look kissable and plump, and I will never not have this in my arsenal.

• Innbeauty Project Lip Glaze Oil - This is, hands down, my favorite lip oil. It is similar to the Ami Colé, but sheerer a bit more slippery. The scent is just like an apple jolly rancher, and I cannot get enough. The tint is a sheer deep red that looks universally flattering on just about everyone.

• Hourglass Phantom Volumizing Glossy Balm - This went viral for good reason. The slipperiest, butteriest, shiniest lip hybrid I've ever tried, the glossy balm makes your lips look sensuous and shiny. The packaging is luxe and fancy, and the slim packaging fits in any clutch.

• GXVE Bubble Pop Electric High-Performance Clean Lip Gloss - Okay, hear me out. This formula is actually really incredible. It's very long-lasting while being incredibly comfortable on the lips. The color "All My Love" is a rich, yummy red-brown color that I think is universally flattering. The scent is sugary vanilla - like cake batter, which I normally hate but somehow it doesn't bother me. I have my eyes on the hot pink shade next; the others don't look particularly worthwhile.

• Rare Beauty With Gratitude Dewy Lip Balm - This is a lovely, cushy tinted lip balm. I only have one shade, Blessed, which is a bright spring pink. The formula is soft, and you can build up the color quite a bit before it starts to look cakey.

• Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil - First, this is more of a tint. Manage your expectations on that. But it's a really dang good one. The color starts super shiny, and once that wears off it leaves a beautiful long-lasting stain behind. The formula doesn't dry my lip out as it wears off, so if you, like me, such at reapplication, then this could be for you!

• Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable Glossy Lip Balm - This is the plushest, most comfortable lip gloss/balm hybrid. It is as nourishing as it is comfortable and provides a stunning glossy shine. It wears off fairly quickly, but for a gloss, this is not surprising. My lips feel soft and hydrated after wearing this. I love nearly apricot, nearly rose, and nearly berry.

• Glossier Ultralip High Shine Lipstick with Hyaluronic Acid - If you like lipsticks that feel like lip balms and give you a kiss of color like you just ate a popsicle, then you'll love this formula. It's comfortable, you can apply it without looking, and the colors are various. Can't mess it up, which I love.

• Fenty Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain - I LIVED in this last summer. It truly does make it look like you just ate a popsicle. The stain lasts quite a long time and never feels drying. I love putting this on before I go to the beach and not having to worry about it.

• Hourglass Unlocked Satin Creme Lipstick - A great classic, creamy lipstick formula. Similar to the Merit (below), it is a touch smoother, which more color payoff. I definitely need to prep my lips to wear this, and my lips can feel dry after it wears off, but that is to be expected. This formula is very long-lasting and leaves a soft even stain of color as it wears off, which I love. Oasis, Dahlia, and Tropic are my favorite shades.

• Charlotte Tilbury Hyaluronic Happiness Lipstick Balm - I own four of these. The formula is just...indescribable. Which is not helpful, is it? It is a creamy, serum-like balm with a decently pigmented, but not opaque, color. The packaging is cheap and awful, but I don't care because the formula is that good.

• Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm - This subtly tinted lip balm is darn cute. The shade Vanilla Beige nearly matches my natural lip color. I particularly enjoy the curved applicator that hugs your lips as you apply.

• Dior Lip Glow - This iconic custom color lip balm has been a beauty blogger favorite for YEARS, and I am still not tired of it. They keep releasing new shades, but my go-to is Rosewood.

• Bobbi Brown Crush Oil-Infused Gloss - The perfect lip gloss does not exist? Bullshit. It does, and this is it. New Romantic is the nude pink gloss of my goddamn dreams. Free Spirit is a nude beige color so luscious it will make you cry. The formula is, and I cannot stress this enough, NOT STICKY. It's sumptuous and lush, and hydrating. Just buy it already and thank me later.

• Gucci Rouge à Lèvres Voile Sheer Lipstick - The packaging alone is worth the price tag for this stunning lipstick. It instantly transports you to Old Hollywood. I love the sheer formula, and my favorites are shades 205 Hold Your Man, 110 Marguerite Jade, 603 Marina Violet, and 25* Goldie Red.



Blush

• Kulfi Mehndi Moment Long-Lasting Radiant Cream Blush - Oh, man. I did not have high expectations for this blush. And yet, it has stolen my heart and become one of my favorite cream blushes I have ever used. It's just incredible. It is creamy, easy to blend, and dries down to a natural finish that doesn't budge. The shade Pinky Promise is the *perfect* pink. I also love Sandalwood Swirls. The packaging isn't my favorite, but it works better than most tube products I have.

• Ami Colé Desert Date Cream Blush & Lip Multistick - If you want the Kulfi blush but you prefer a stick formula, this is it! Just as creamy and blendable, just as long-wearing and stunning...this blush is something different. I have shades Dune and Spice and love them both but particularly love Dune.

• Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush - Yes, this is a viral TikTok product you have probably seen non-stop. Is it worth it? Yes. Just, simply, yes. It is SUPER pigmented. A pinprick of color is enough for each cheek. I prefer the "dewy" shades over the matte. My favorites are Hope, Worth, and Encourage. They are easy to blend, very long-lasting, and have a natural finish.

• Danessa Myricks Yummy Skin Blurring Balm Powder Flushed - Matte Color for Cheek & Lip - I am about to sound like a broken record, but this blush formula is unbelievable. It is blendable, delivers stunning color, and gives a subtle blurring effect that makes your skin look like glass. I have Rose N Brunch as well as Jubilee and adore them both! They are, thankfully, fragrance-free.

• Rose Inc Divine Cream Blush - This blush formula is one of the most unique I have ever used. It has a tackiness to it straight out the pan that helps it stay in place, but it is still very blendable. But it doesn't budge! My dry, sensitive skin loves this cream blush deeply. I have the shades heliotrope, foxglove, and dahlia. This blush is refillable, too, and the packaging is ::chef's kiss::.

• Westman Atelier Baby Cheeks Blush Stick - This is a long-time love that is finally available at Sephora. Stick formulas are tricky, but this blush finds that happy medium between blendable and long-wearing. My favorite color is Chouchette.

• Danessa Myricks Dewy Cheek & Lip Palette - I am not a palette person. But this color story has me swooning! I bought the "dew it undercover" palette, and boy, do these neutral beige tones speak to my soul. Like most Danessa products, this palette is multi-use and highly fragranced. The formula is a touch sticky but blendable and buildable.

• Danessa Myricks Vision Flush Eye, Lip, & Cheek Color - A highly pigmented liquid blush with incredible staying power and a wide range of shades? Instant favorite. Add to cart. My go-to's are Bread N Butter and Ballet Slippers. Nutcracker is next on my list.

• Clinique Cheek Pop Blush - I used to own this blush in like five colors and then (stupidly) purged all five to a friend long ago. I missed them a lot and repurchased two - Nude Pop and Heather Pop. The formula is unique; it is a gel powder that almost feels like a cream and wears as long as a powder. It is an excellent dupe for the Mac Glow Play blush.

• Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush - I am a cream blush girl, but this radiant formula has my heart. This finely milled dream blush has a subtle sheen. When I use it, I apply an even, light dusting across my cheeks, and it somehow gives the effect of blush, bronzer, and highlight. It is my go-to when I want to look effortlessly radiant. Brilliant Nude is my favorite shade of this formula, but they're all stunning. I recently purchased the shade "At Night" - a gorgeous brick red, and holy heck, is it an ideal winter shade. It is also fragrance-free.



Bronzer + Contour

• Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Sun-Kissed Glow Cream Bronzer - If you're fair like me and struggle to find cool or neutral-toned bronzers, I am thrilled to report this does the job and it does damn well. The pan is also so huge it'll take a lifetime to finish it.

• Westman Atelier Face Trace Cream Contour Stick - This cool-toned contour stick is neutral enough to use as a bronzer if you want, but it contours beautifully as well. It is super blendable. I am not a huge stick formula fan, but this contour is magic. I wear shade biscuit.

• MILK Makeup Sculpt Cream Contour Stick - If mini things are more your style and you don't want to be as spendy as the Westman Atelier, the Milk is the way to go. It offers a wide shade range, and the formula is easy to use and very blendable. I wear "toasted."

• Makeup By Mario SoftSculpt® Transforming Skin Enhancer - If you want something that is no-fuss, impossible to mess up, and gives a gorgeous, soft warmth, then this product is perfect for you. I bought it last summer and used it almost daily. It is so easy to use and gives just a pop of warmth that looks incredibly natural. I wear the shade "light medium."

• Huda Beauty GlowWish Soft Radiance Bronzing Powder - This may be my perfect powder bronzer. It gives a soft, radiant glow without any noticeable shimmer and zero glitter. The formula is a cream-powder hybrid that blends easily but stays put. I have reached for it every day since I bought it a few weeks ago.

• Saie Sun Melt Natural Cream Bronzer - I finally found the best cream bronzer on the market. Okay, that may be exaggerating as I have not tried all the cream bronzers on the market, but I think this one is the best. Fragrance-free, blendable, buildable...it has it all. Unlike other cream bronzers I have tried in the past, this one wears well throughout the day. I wear the lightest shade, giving me the perfect amount of warmth.

• Gucci Poudre De Beauté Éclat Soleil Bronzing - This bitch. She is slightly shimmery and has fragrance, but hot.damn, is she good. I picked up shade 02, and it is somewhat orange-toned, but it will be the perfect bronze in the summer. The packaging is a vintage dream - it feels like a piece of art on your vanity. Not a necessity but, like all Gucci Beauty, something you'll adore owning.

• Hourglass Ambient Bronzer - I prefer a matte bronzer (mainly because most bronzers on the market that have shimmer look ridiculous). Still, this radiant, luminous version changed my mind. It has a stunning soft glow, and it is easy to build. I wear shade Nude Bronze Light, but after seeing and swatching these in person, I think I could get away with the two darker shades. It is also fragrance-free, hard to find in bronzes, but a must for me.

• Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Matte Bronzer - This might be the best matte powder bronzer I have ever used. The silicone-infused formula glides on the skin and gives you that signature "airbrushed" look. Blending is a dream with this beauty. I wear shade 2. It is fragrance-free and refillable.



Highlighter

• Westman Atelier Super Loaded Tinted Cream Highlighter - Okay, so this is a highlighter, but I LOVE using it as a one-and-done, all-over product. The peachy shade, Peau De Peche, works for me as blush/bronzer/highlight all over my cheeks, and I loved popping it on my eyes to finish.

• Rare Beauty Positive Light Silky Touch Highlighter - This is not your 2012 highlighter - she is finely milled and shines like the fucking starts but somehow manages not to emphasize texture too much. I love dusting this on my cheeks when I want to blind people. I have all shades (except flaunt) and adore them all.

• Danessa Myricks Dew Wet Hydrating and Highlighting Balm - I feel like everyone's dream highlighter does not shimmer or sparkle but simply makes their skin GLOW and has a wet look. This is that. This simple, transparent balm gives your skin the perfect wet look glow. The translucent color is everything you've ever wanted a cream highlighter to be.

• InnBeauty Project Face Glaze - This could be in skincare as well - but I primarily use it as a highlighter or all over under foundation. It's a beautifully hydrating moisturizing highlight with finely milled shimmer. I can (and do) often wear it alone to make my face just look radiant and healthy. It is fragrance-free and just lovely.

• Tom Ford Illuminating Powder Duo - Somewhere between a bronzer, blush, and highlighter, this multi-purpose duo is a does-it-all multitasker. I have the shade Moodlight. The lightweight powder formula makes people look radiant as if a professional light crew is following them around. I love it immensely. I also LOVE to buy TF during the Sephora sale bc she is pricey.



Priming + Finishing Products

• MILK Makeup Hydro Grip Setting + Refreshing Spray - I was skeptical about this product but decided to give it a try last summer and am thrilled I did. It really does set your makeup without changing the finish.

• NARS Pro-Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base - I cannot live without eye primer. My lids are simply too oily. This is my most re-purchased makeup product ever. I have lost count of how many tubes I have gone through. It gives me 8+ hours of creaseless wear with any formula. Love.

• Saie Airset Radiant Loose Setting Powder - I have never been a fan of loose setting powder. This powder is the powder for people who hate powders. It has a slightly shimmering effect to set and blur the skin. While I have dry, sensitive skin, I still get oily throughout the day. This keeps my makeup looking fresh but not baked.

• Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Power - With a cult-like following, this setting powder may be the most purchased item from all of Charlotte Tilbury's line. The signature silicone formula delivers flawless-looking skin, incredible staying power, and an effortlessly blended formula. It is fragrance-free.



Eyeshadow + Eyeliner

• Urban Decay Moon Dust Eyeshadow - Another product that went viral on TikTok for good reason. This stunning shadow topper cannot be captured on camera, the way it looks in person is just indescribable. Perfectly sparkly and shimmering, it catches the light in the most stunning way. I have several shades, but I recommend Space Cowboy and Cosmic to start.

• Eye Bento Bouncy Eyeshadow Trio - These eyeshadows are so blendable and beautiful! I can't get enough of them. I have several, but Spiked Ginger is my go-to.

• Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize Cream Eyeshadow - A friend decluttered these and sent them my way, and dang it, I hate to admit I love them. I love a cream anything, and this eyeshadow wears beautifully throughout the day. The colors are some of my favorites in my collection, notably Pillow Talk and Oyster Pearl.

• Danessa Myricks Colorfix Eye, Cheek, & Lip - This is my most used eye product ever. This multi-use cream pigment is an oily-lid makeup lover's DREAM. I do use eye primer with it because I have trust issues, but 90% of people won't need to. This formula dries down quickly and doesn't budge for 12+ hours. You can use it on lips and cheeks, too. My ride or die colors are Exposed, Celebration, Milky Way, Créme Brule, and Latte.

• Dior Backstage Glow Face Palette - Okay, I *know* this is called a face palette, but the shade 002 Glitz is the dreamiest color palette for my eyes. All four shades are gorgeous. Catch me wearing this all summer, forever.

• Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eye Quad - Originally released as a limited edition product, I missed it the first time around. I watched with aggressive jealousy as others got it and adored it. Everyone raved about it. The makeup artist who did my makeup for my elopement and wedding reception even did a whole IG story series on all the looks she created with it. So when they finally brought it back, I pounced on it. It is as good and as versatile as everyone says. The pink hues suit my features, and the formulas are creamy and blendable. I'm currently head over heels for this quad and plan to pick up more quads from the brand. I have greenish hazel eyes and think this looks lovely with them, but I bet it would kill on blue or brown eyes.

• Tom Ford Eye Quad - The quads I own, Nude Dip and Mink Mirage, are just stunning. The versatility of this quad is next level. It is so easy to create day and night looks. Another splurge, but this palette has been one of my most used since I bought it years ago, and it is one pro MUAs swear by.

• Dior Backstage Eyeshadow Palette in Warm Neutrals - Easily my most reached-for palette to date, this is precisely what it says it is - a bunch of warm neutral shades. Containing mattes and shimmers (and a primer base), this palette is so damn versatile that it is shocking. The shadows are silky and blend-able, with minimal fallout. If left to only have one eye palette forever, I would be surprised if I didn't pick this one.

• M.U.F.E. Artist Color Pencils - Designed for eyes, lips, and brows, these creamy but long-lasting pencils come in a wide variety of colors. I have a handful of the browns and use them primarily as eyeliner, but the formula can be used anywhere. In addition, the shade range is so vast you could easily find a color for every need you have without having to venture to a different brand. A few favorites are Anywhere Caffeine, Limitless Brown, and Completely Sepia.


Mascara • Ami Colé Lash-Amplifying Volumizing & Lengthening Mascara - She's thick, she's whipped, she's everything. This delivers dramatic lashes without the weight, and the inky black color is deep and rich. Just all-around love.

• Glossier Lash Slick Lift and Lengthening Mascara - An oldie but goodie, now finally available at Sephora, so you don't have to deal with the stupid Glossier order minimum. I prefer the brown shade and reach for it on days I want a super natural, wispy lash.

• Ilia Limitless Lash Lengthening Mascara - This is likely my favorite mascara ever. It is the perfect balance of dramatic and natural. The wand has different-length applicators on either side, so you can build up the mascara, flip it, and then comb through to spread the lashes. Genius.


Brows

• Ami Colé Ultra-Flex Clear Eyebrow Shaping Gel - This provides very natural, soft, natural brows that stay put but still feel soft. It doesn't pill or get that weird white clump look other brow products can get. Ami Colé can do no wrong, in my opinion.

• REFY Brow Sculpt Shape and Hold Gel - I have never had my brows laminated, but I don't think I need to with this gel. The hold is strong and long-wearing. I love the packaging with the built-in comb and brush.


Foundation + Concealer

• Makeup Up Forever HD Skin Matte Velvet Undetectable Longwear Blurring Powder Foundation - I did not have falling in love with a powder foundation on my 2023 bingo card, but here we are! Even on my dry skin, it works (when I prep my skin well). It lasts ALL. DAMN. DAY. It looks natural and provides buildable coverage. The finish is a soft matte that looks more skin-like as the day goes on and my natural oils shine through. But it never breaks up. It works best when layered with other powder products.

• KVD Good Apple Full-Coverage Transfer-Proof Vegan Serum Foundation - I also didn't have falling in love with a full-coverage foundation on my 2023 bingo card, but apparently, this is the year of surprises. Again, I have to prep the hell out of my skin, but if I pump this into the palm of my hand, and really work my foundation brush into the formula, it gives me the most natural full coverage look I have ever had. It is long-wearing, and the finish is natural. I cannot get over how much I love this product and how often I reach for it.

• Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint with Hyaluronic Acid + Squalane - This is what I wished the Ilia skin tint would have been. Sheer to light natural coverage with a radiant finish. It feels hydrating on the skin and layers well with everything else.

• Merit The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Foundation + Concealer Stick - I wear shade Linen in this duo-use formula. A tip for my dry-skin friends: you need to prep the shit out of your skin before using this; otherwise, it will cling to every dry patch you have. The fragrance-free formula is buttery, smooth, buildable, and provides the perfect coverage. This foundation is the ideal no-fuss one-and-done product when my skin is prepped correctly. The packaging also makes it convenient for travel or on-the-go touch-ups.

• Milk Makeup Sunshine Under Eye Concealer - This formula did not work for me at first. So much so that I nearly threw it away. My under eyes are exceedingly dry, and this formula accentuated every line and dry patch. But, with some changes to my eye creams, I made it work. Now, it is my most reached for under-eye concealer.

• Pat McGrath Labs Sublime Perfection Foundation - This is another incredible foundation I did not think would work for me; this lightweight liquid foundation is fucking STUNNING. It is my favorite to use when I know I will be photographed. The finish is natural and skin-like. As a dry skin baby, prep is critical with this foundation. Exfoliate and hydrate deeply before using this. The shade range is generous, yet I had trouble finding a good match. Light 3 is the closest to me, but it's a touch light, and the following neutral-based shaded is way too dark. But as a pale white girl who has seldom had this issue, it's not a big deal.

• NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer - This is the perfect concealer to hide blemishes and spots. I wouldn't use this for under-eyes, but spot correcting? There's nothing better. I wear the shade Madeline.

Nails

• Nails INC NAILKALE Superfood Base Coat - I recently decided I wanted to be better at doing my own nails and knew a good base coat would be a must. This helps my manicures last longer and doesn't destroy my nails.

• Dior Nail Glow - I hate doing my nails; they always chip. I also actually prefer the "natural nail" look. I layer this over a coat of the OPI Nail Envy, giving my nails a healthy, milky pink glow. It also lasts way longer than I expected - over a week for me. I don't know why I waited so long to buy this product, as it is now a staple in my arsenal.


Brushes

• Sephora Collection PRO Foundation Brush #56 - This is a recent purchase, and I would like to know who has been hiding it from me because DAMN. It is so good. It is the perfect size to get into the crevices around the nose, eyes, and mouth. It provides doesn't leave streaks. I love using it with the KVD foundation.

• Bobbi Brown Full Coverage Face Brush - A pricey purchase but one I don't regret a single bit. Use it with liquid foundations, and you'll get a stunning finish each time.

• Rare Beauty Positive Light Precision Highlighter Brush - If you use any powder highlighters, you need this brush. It gives the softest, most natural finish.

• Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Blush Brush - If you haven't noticed from this list yet, Rare brushes are frickin' incredible. I love this for liquid blush

• Saie The Big Buffing Bronzer Brush - I bought this in tandem with the Saie cream bronzer and haven't looked back since. The large, dense brush applies cream products like a dream. It gives a very blurred effect which I adore.

• Rare Beauty Stay Vulnerable All Over Eyeshadow Brush - This brush is small, but it is also mighty. It applies powder and cream shadows as well as my fingers do, which is my preferred method usually.

• Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Concealer Brush - This brush is designed to feel like the pad of a finger. The super-soft bristles are the perfect density and shape to blend concealer softly. It really does feel as though I've used my finger.

• Rare Beauty Liquid Touch Foundation Brush - Enough people I trust raved about this brush for me to pick it up. Aaaaaaand they were right. It's incredible. It doesn't soak up too much product, blends liquid and cream formulas like a damn cream is comfortable to hold and use - I can't get enough of it.


Skincare


Devices

• DermaFlash Dermapore Ultrasonic Pore Extractor & Serum Infuser *- I don't use many face tools, and I am generally pretty skeptical of most on the market. This brand, however, was founded by a former MedSpa owner and is exceptionally high quality, safe to use, and easy to use. I am a picker - I constantly pick at my face, which isn't good for my skin. This device has helped cure that habit completely. The ultrasonic technology will unclog your pores with minimal effort, and you can also use this to infuse your skincare deeper into your skin. I use this maybe twice a week and have noticed the pores on my forehead and nose are significantly less clogged - and I'm not harming my skin with constant picking.

• DermaFlash LUXE Anti-Aging Dermaplaning Exfoliation Device*- You have probably seen all those super satisfying dermaplaning videos on Instagram and are super intrigued. This easy-to-use tool helps you safely achieve those results at home. I've used mine only twice, but it works perfectly. The removal of baby hairs and any dry, dead skin has revealed supple, soft, fresh skin, and my products and makeup go on like a dream. I cannot wait to see more results from regular use. Just be sure to discontinue the use of any acids or retinol 48 hours before and after use to avoid over-exfoliating your skin.


Cleansers

• Paula’s Choice Omega + Complex Cleansing Balm - The only thing stopping this cleanser from taking over the world is the fact it has a screw cap instead of a flip cap. That's it, that's the review.

• Laneige Cream Skin Oil Cleanser - This gentle, fragrance-free, milky cleanser has been a dream for my dry, sensitive skin. I use this first thing in the morning or as a second cleanse, and it not only never strips my skin but leaves it calm and happy.

• Fresh Soy Cleanser* - This old favorite is a simple, basic, but super effective cleanser. Even my husband likes this one which says a lot because he is randomly extremely opinionated about cleansers. I use this as a second cleanse. It claims to be good at removing makeup, but I don't use it for that purpose, so I cannot confirm.


Serums + Oils

• Summer Fridays Dream Oasis Deep Hydration Serum - I don't know why I doubted this serum, but I did, and I was wrong. It is lovely and hydrating and calming and layers beautifully. I am currently out and plan to buy more asap.

• Eadem Milk Marvel Dark Spot Serum with Niacinamide and Vitamin C - Here's a truth - I have a different vitamin C dark spot treatment I love, but it's very expensive and not sold at sephora. This is the next best thing. Fragrance-free and sensitive-skin friendly, too! The only thing I don't like is the dropper - it wasn't easy to use.

• Glossier Super Bounce Hyaluronic Acid + Vitamin B5 Hydrating Face Serum - Look, call me a basic B, but I love this serum. It is simple, effective, and a joy to use. It has a unique texture that really is "bouncy." I constantly come back to it when I need to get my skin back on track.

• Summer Fridays Heavenly Sixteen All in On Face Oil - I spent many a moon hunting down a face oil that worked for my dry, sensitive skin that did not contain fragrance or fragrant essential oils. Oh, and it actually has to work. I love love LOVE this oil. I layer it at night with my moisturizer and wake up with glowing, happy skin.

• YTTP Triple Peptide + Cactus Hydrating + Firming Oasis Serum* - I love a hyaluronic acid serum, and this one doesn't have the tell-tale tackiness that usually accompanies a HA serum. I use it daily as the first hydrating layer, and all my products go on smoother because of it.


Moisturizers, Masks, + Eye Creams

• Glossier After Baume Moisture Barrier Recovery Cream - The most sumptuous, occlusive baume, I use this at the end of my nighttime routine to seal everything in. I have gone through two tubs of it and love it dearly.

• Summer Fridays Cloud Dew Gel Cream Moisturizer - I did not expect this to work on my dry skin. Lightweight it may be, but it still packs a punch. I love this for summer.

• YTTP Peptides + C Energy Eye Concentrate with Vitamin C and Caffeine* - Another sleeper hit, this lightweight eye cream is delish! It even layers well with undereye concealer which is so hard to find.

• Augustinus Bader - The Rich Cream - I hate that I adore this cream so much since it is so expensive, but it really is a one and done product - so you can use less steps. It kept my dry, sensitive skin very happy all fall and winter and now that my bottle is empty I sorely miss it.

• Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair Serum - I love this serum-moisturizer as the last step in my nighttime routine. It seals everything in and keeps my skin protected all night. Of course, I can still feel it on my face in the morning, but in a good way. Unlike all the other Tatcha creams, this one comes with a scoop but not a place to store it, which drives me nuts.

• YTTP Superclay Purify and Clear Power Mask - As I have said before, I hate masks. I especially hate charcoal masks. Despite those two facts, this is my favorite mask. Ever. It clears and balances my skin without any irritation, and I do not understand this wizardry but I appreciate it.

• Dr. Jart+Ceramidin Cream - A winter must have for all skin types but especially those who are dry and sensitive, this rich cream is packed with yummy ingredients to soothe even the most irritated and weather torn skin. It is fragrance-free but does contain Bergamot Fruit Oil, which could irritate anyone super sensitive. I use this at night layered with an oil.


Mists

• Laneige Cream Skin Mist - This mist is officially my favorite mist. I want a mist actually to do something, and this gentle, fragrance-free mist is so packed with moisturizing ingredients that some people can use it as a moisturizer. Fun fact: the mist and lotion (toner/essence) are the exact same product, just different names, and usage instructions.

• Tower 28 SOS Daily Mist - I love a mist. I mist between steps of my skincare to help products absorb better. This newbie has quickly become a favorite, and I flew through it. Hold it far from your face as the spray isn't as fine as others. Yes, it is fragrance-free.

• Glow Recipe Watermelon Ultra Fine Mist - The name does not lie. This mist is SO. FINE. And it smells like a watermelon jolly rancher, and while I wholeheartedly hate fragrance in skincare I fucking love how this smells. The packaging is also cute as shit, so.


Lip Balms + Treatments

• Bobbi Brown Extra Plump Hydrating Lip Serum - My latest lip treatment obsession, this citrus-scented liquid balm is hydrating, comfortable, and fortifying. It has a hint of shimmer that is nearly indescribable. The leaf-shaped applicator is highly mobile, making the application a breeze.

• Laneige Sleeping Lip Mask - An Instagram favorite, this is a lovely lip balm. I think the packaging and the unique flavors keep everyone coming back to this baby. I can't say that I think it is a game-changer or savior for chapped lips - it's just yummy and smells delicious. The Gummy Bear flavor is *so good*.

• Hourglass No28 Treatment Oil - Unlike the above, this treatment is a game-changer and deserves praise for its uncanny ability to save my lips no matter how chapped or angry they are. I put this on every night before bed and wake up with soft subtle lips every morning. I adore the applicator, as I low-key hate any product I have to use my fingers for.

• Fresh Sugar Hydrating Lip Balm - Like the Laneige, I think the cute packaging and fun flavors make these lip balms so collectible. Again, I'm not a fan of products where I have to use my fingers - but these balms are actually quite nice and layer well with lipstick. I love the mango flavor.

• Rosebud Strawberry Lip Balm - This is pure nostalgia - didn't we ALL use this in high school? Again, nothing life-changing, but every time I see this gold tin at the checkout of Sephora, I have to hold back buying one. Forever a favorite for no other reason than happy memories.


SPF, Primers, Misc.

• Charlotte Tilbury Invisible UV Flawless Primer SPF 50 - This. Damn. Primer. It is too small and too expensive and too damn perfect. I would love to buy this in a jumbo size and use it every day but I find I wear it mostly on "special occasions" to make it last. Or on days when I need my makeup to last forever because it really does make everything stick. I also often use it without makeup as my SPF. It really is just that good.

• Tatcha Aburatorigami Japanese Blotting Sheets - Look, ya girl may have the driest skin this side of the equator but I still get oily. These massive blotting papers get my entire face with one sheet. I have them in my purse and at my desk at work. Love.


Body

• Josie Maran Intensive Daily Repair Body Butter for Eczema, Extra Dry, and Sensitive Skin - This is the best body butter I have ever used. It is rich but sinks in immediately. Perfect for my dry, sensitive skin, this body butter saved my skin in the winter and saved it again in the summer when I got too much sun. I'll never be without it.

• Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter - My second favorite body butter, this version is a little more "wet" and leaves a beautiful shine. I love this nearly as much as the Daily Repair, and recently bought the jumbo-size tub of the Vanilla Apricot scent, and I love it. I do prefer the fragrance-free (surprise surprise) but enjoy a yummy summery scent from time to time.

• Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow AHA Pink Dream Body Cream - Look, we all know I prefer a fragrance-free lotion, but I somehow adore this watermelon lotion that literally smells just like a Jolly Rancher. It is one of those products that is simply a joy to use.

*All of the Necessaire items below are either fragrance-free or come in a fragrance-free option.

• Nécessaire Body Oil - This is my holy grail body product. I have gone through three bottles of it and will never be without it. It has absolutely no smell. Yes, it is fragrance-free, but it has no discernable smell whatsoever. It sinks in almost immediately and keeps me hydrated all day.

• Nécessaire Gel Deodorant - I love this formula. It lasts 6-8 hours for me before I need to reapply. It will never replace my good old Old Spice, but it is a fantastic option for those looking for a "clean" deodorant.

• Nécessaire The Body Wash - This is not news - this is the best body wash I have ever used. It is NOT a typical body wash. Nécessaire puts the care, effort, and ingredients into their body products most brands put into their $300 face serums. I prefer the unscented version of this wash, as I can use it on every part of my body, even the lady bits.

• Necéssaire The Body Lotion - Hands down, the best body lotion I've ever used. I tried DOZENS in my life and could never commit to using body lotion regularly until this came into my life. It is perfect - lightweight, sumptuous, sinks in immediately, fragrance-free - just buy it and thank me later.

• Nécessaire The Body Serum - Okay, to save time, I am just going to tell you that I fucking love everything from Nécessaire. Everything. Every. Single. Item. This serum is lightweight and lovely to use, but I especially love using this before I put on the lotion or oil for extra hydration. You can read my full review of the Body Serum here and follow up here.

• Nécessaire The Hand Cream - There is a theme happening. It's fragrance-free and damn near perfect. Full review here. Your dry, cracked hands from all the cold weather and handwashing deserve the lotion.

• Nécessaire The Body Exfoliator - The only product from the line other than the sex gel that I haven't written a review for - but I have reviewed this in my stories on Instagram numerous times. In short, it helps keep my body acne at bay with acids and physical exfoliation. The charcoal beads begin to break down while you scrub so you cannot accidentally over-exfoliate. I use this once or twice a week, and it does wonders for keeping my body clear and (KP) bump-free. I also love to use it to exfoliate my legs before shaving to avoid razor burn.

• Tan-Luxe Super Glow Body Hyaluronic Self-Tan - The only safe tan is a fake tan! But for those who hate the smell of fake tanner, it means we are doomed to being pale forever. Enter Tan-Luxe. Their entire brand is about easy-to-use self-tanner that has no discernable smell. Does the self-tan smell still happen anyway? Yes. For many users, they never smell anything, but the thing is, Dihydroxyacetone has a smell no matter what you do, and some people's body chemistry (like mine) will always react to it. Is it lighter and less offensive than any other brand I have tried? Yes, yes it is. The formula is easy to use and gives me a beautiful golden glow that lasts almost a week.


Haircare

• VERB Purple Shampoo - Since going back to blonde, I'm always on the hunt for good purple shampoos. I love VERB products so much, and this does exactly what I need it to - remove the brassy tones and brighten my blonde.

• Verb Ghost Shampoo - One of my tried and true, never lets me down shampoos. Even though it has fragrance, it has never broken me out. I often buy the jump size with a pump.

• Verb Ghost Hair Mask - Instead of conditioner, I use this mask to keep my bleached hair soft and healthy. I leave it on in the shower for about five minutes, and it works like a charm.

• Verb Ghost Prep Heat Protectant - I use this before I detangle my hair after showering, and it gives my hair extra shine and protects it from heat styling without weighing it down. What more can I ask of it?

• Dae Vegan Detangle + Style Brush - This is the best hair brush I have ever used. Dare I say I like it more than my Mason Pearson? (don't let it hear my say that) I can use it on wet or dry hair, and I swear I notice less fall out in the brush than I do other tools. RIP to the wet brush, this is my ride or die now.

• K18 Biometrics Hairscience Levie-in Molecular Repair Mask - This saved my hair in two uses. My stylist and colorist both commented on how healthy my hair looked after I started using it. My one piece of advice? Read the directions, and do not overuse it!

• Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Advanced Clean Dry Shampoo - I feel like we have all been thinking our Dry Shampoos work but after using this one I realized nothing I've tried before works quite as well as this. It has a strong fragrance, but it is a very fresh, clean, almost laundry-like smell I don't mind.

• Amika Polished Perfecting Brush* - I haven't even looked at my straightener since this brush entered my life. It is so quick and easy to use and not only tames my hair but also gives me the look of a blowout which we all know I don't have the patience to do with a brush and dryer. Truly, I am the laziest human alive when it comes to doing my hair and this tool means it takes less than five minutes to smooth my hair. I couldn't recommend it more.

• Amika hAIR Blow Dryer Brush* - For the days when I have the time/patience - this bush is a godsend for lazy girls who still want to look like they did their hair. Let your hair air-dry like 75% then use this tool to finish the job. It legitimately gives you the blowout of your dreams with minimal effort. It weighs less than a pound so your arm won't ache, and unlike the popular Revlon version, the highest heat setting does NOT destroy your hair. My hair goes to my collarbones and it takes me about 7-10 minutes to do my whole head. Not bad for a rookie.

• Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal Dry Shampoo* This dry shampoo has a weird applicator, but that's fine because it works wonders. My fine hair typically gets weighed down by anything I put on it dry, but this dry shampoo gets the job done by absorbing excess oil and giving my hair a much-needed boost & lift at the roots.

• Verb Dry Shampoo Light* - A classic aerosol dry shampoo, this slightly purple-hued spray is a dream for my platinum locks. Lightweight and lightly scented, this is one of the only dry shampoos that does what it says and makes my hair look and feel clean again. It also comes in a dark version for brunettes.

• Verb Ghost Weightless Hair Oil - The only hair product I use other than shampoo and conditioner on a regular enough basis is usually an oil of some sort. I apply this silky serum to my strands before I dry it, and my hair is soft, shiny, and tangle-free. Lightly scented, this has thankfully never broken me out. A little goes a long way, and you can use this on wet and dry hair.


Fragrance

• Otherland Candles - This brand creates some of the most unique scents I have encountered. Cardamom Milk is one of my all-time favorites.

• Nest New York Candles - If you follow me on Instagram, you know I am deeply obsessed with my Nest Candles. Their throw is insane. Within 30 minutes my entire apartment will be enveloped in the scent I'm burning. For winter I highly recommend the Birchwood Pine scent - its like a fresh cut Christmas tree that still has snow on its branches. One of their most popular scents is Grapefruit, it is bright, sweet, tart, and totally intoxicating.

• OverRose Candles - During the last Sephora sale I purchased Valkiria, a milky peach and fig scent, that is just gorgeous. The vessels are highly Instagram-able and the throw is considerably strong. Well worth the price when you realize they are almost twice the size of a Diptyque candle and still cheaper.

Alright, kids, that's it! I hope this was helpful. And again, you do NOT need to shop this sale if you are not feeling it, but should you feel inclined, shopping my links and checking out on a browser helps me continue to create content.

Cheers,

Claire


• An* denotes a gifted item

• This post contains affiliate links

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