Ooh-la-la: Best Beauty Picks

How many girls have TONS of beauty products... like 10 different body lotions, 4 mascaras, 2 moisturizers... etc. all purchased for the purpose of finding the BEST one?? Well, I DO! And along the way I have found some BESTs and favorite beauty products either by trial or recommendations from friends that I thought I'd share...

Facial Cleanser: Purpose by Johnson & Johnson
This stuff retails for $7 and can be found at Target, CVS, and online. It does a great job removing make-up, including regular mascara, but is sensitive enough so it does not over-dry your face.


Moisturizer with Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX
This company is a leader in UVA protection. Studies show that normal high SPFs don't necessarily protect your skin from aging and cancer. Anthelios SX features the first new sun filter in a sunscreen approved by the FDA in 18 years (minus all the chemicals)! I recommend their sunblock as well. Click HERE to view all of their products. Their line can be purchased at CVS or online, runs about $30 a bottle.

Lip Treatment: Sugar Collection by Fresh
L-O-V-E these! They really work, taste great and last a really long time! You can get them tinted in 3 different shades: Rose, Plum, and Honey (Nude). I own one in Plum...$22.50 ea, can be purchased at Fresh stores and website, Club Monaco, and online at Sephora.com.

Body Lotion:  Aveeno (baby) Soothing Relief Moisture Cream
Although this lotion is for babies, it's the only one that gets rid of my eczema on my legs and leaves my skin feeling silky smooth. Contains oatmeal to soothe itching, redness, and dry patches. Found at any grocery store or pharmacy; $8.



Mineral Foundation: bareMinerals SPF 15 Matte Foundation
If you have oily skin or can be prone to break-outs, this mineral make up is for you! It has amazing coverage without looking cake-y with a matte flawless look. $28 at Sephora or Planet Beauty stores. Throw it on with some blush and you're ready to go!



Eyeliner: Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner
Long-wearing, water-resistant color glides on & let’s you get it just right before it dries - then stays without a smear or crease. I prefer this one to the MAC gel eyeliner; however, you have to make sure to seal it well so it doesn't dry out too fast! You will need an eyeliner brush for application. $21 at the Bobbi Brown counter at department stores or Sephora.com. 


Body Sunscreen: Ocean Potion Anti-Aging Lotion with SPF 15, 30, or 50
Best kept secret under the sun! One of the best smelling sunscreen/sunblock on the market and for a great price! $6 at RiteAid or online at drugstore.com.
SPF 30 provides higher sun protection against UVA I, II and UVB sunrays. Contains Seaplant extracts and Anti-Oxidant Vitamins A, C, and E that aid in the reduction of cell damaging free radicals for younger looking skin. Check out their Natural Mineral Sunblock too, which is chemical-free. 

Summer Fragrances

Day: Citron de Vigne by Fresh

So fresh!! The 1 oz. bottle sells for $32 which is perfect until the end of summer. Their line is awesome in general so you can't go wrong with any of their scents. Once again, can be found at Fresh stores, department stores, or amazon.com.





Night: Au de Blanc by Bvlgari

A floral woody musk scent of white tea and white pepper that is recommended for day use, but I think is sexy enough for night time... $78 for 2.5 oz at department stores... cheaper if purchased online.



Face Bronzing Powder: Guerlain Terracotta Light Sheer Bronzing Powder

This product is AH-mazing. Made with REAL gold flakes... how's that for a bronzed look?  $50 at Sephora but worth every penny.


Airbrush Make-up: DiorSkin AirFlash Spray Foundation
An ultra fluid mist foundation that gives an airbrushed appearance. I'm not kidding when I say it diminishes fine lines and skin irregularities. Can be a little heavy for day, depending on your preferences. Application with a special flat ended brush. $60 at the Dior counter at department stores or Sephora.com.


Sunless Tanning Lotion: Victoria's Secret Beach Sexy Instant Self Tan Lotion with Tint
This product may be almost discontinued online but can be found this summer at Victoria's Secret stores and Amazon.com. Immediately after application, you get a golden shimmery tint which develops into a nice brown tan. Very impressive for only $12 a bottle! Perfect when you don't want to pay for an airbrush tan but looks just like one. I stock up.


Nail Polish: Sephora by O.P.I.

Don't Feed the Hand Models

Metro Chic

Let's be honest, all of their colors are fabulous!! But I have to say my ultimate favorite colors are "Metro Chic" and "Don't Feed the Hand Models". For $9.50 a bottle you get quality color and chic colors you can't find at regular beauty locations that sell OPI. Sold exclusively at Sephora and Sephora.com.