So here's the thing: I still consider myself a beauty newbie. It was just a year ago that I was tasked with writing a couple of beauty stories a week in addition to my everyday duties as managing editor ofBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing 's wellness vertical, THE/THIRTY. Let me tell you I was a little apprehensive when I got the assignment because my knowledge of the beauty space was pretty limited. I had my very low-maintenance skincare and makeup routines, and that was it.
But in the past year, I've learned so much: everything I've possibly ever wanted to know about sunscreen, the truth about hyaluronic acid, the basics like how to choose a foundation and how to figure out your skin type… The list goes on and on.
Along with all of the knowledge I've picked up, I've also been introduced to some skincare and makeup products that have quickly become my go-tos. I've found moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, eye makeup, lipsticks, etc., that I'm totally obsessed with and have added to my beauty rotation. And the best part? Because I know more about skincare and makeup techniques, I feel more confident in choosing products that really work for me.
So I was really excited to see a lot of my favorites currently discounted during Sephora's annual Spring Savings Event. From now until April 19, Rouge Beauty Insiders will get 20% off their shopping carts, VIB Beauty Insiders will get 15% off, and Beauty Insiders will get 10% off. All you need is the promo code OMGSPRING at checkout in-store or online. And all Beauty Insiders can get 30% off Sephora Collection products until April 19—no promo code necessary.
I know I'm going to be stocking up on my essentials during this time. What about you? If you need some inspiration, take a look at my shopping list below.
Skincare
I've waxed poetic about this sunscreen before, but to sum it all up, I always used to forget to put on my daily sunscreen until I started using this product. It is so lightweight and doesn't leave that greasy feeling that some sunscreens have. The best part is it leaves a nice glowy finish so it's perfect for my no-makeup makeup look—I just add some concealer, mascara, and a brow gel, and I'm done for the day.
I actually found this moisturizer after receiving a sample from Sephora, and I got hooked on it. The rich cream leaves my skin super hydrated and plumped, but it doesn't feel too heavy. I love that it has natural ingredients like Japanese purple rice (antioxidant-rich), Okinawa algae blend, and botanical extracts.
Some cleansers can really dry my skin out, but not this one from Fresh. It has a gel consistency, which I love because it feels so cooling and refreshing. It's also pretty good at removing makeup, so I find it saves me time at the end of the day.
Laneige's mask is hands down my favorite mask. It manages to quench my dry and tired skin like whoa. When I wake up after using the overnight mask, my face looks and feels softer and brighter.
Okay, the thing you need to know about me is that I have a small collection of moisturizers that I like to keep on rotation. Because my skin is prone to dryness, I have a couple of go-tos that I swap in and out. Drunk Elephant's Protini moisturizer feels so soothing. I like using it as my daytime moisturizer. Its ingredients include signal peptides, growth factors, amino acids, and pygmy water lily.
I found that this serum really helps with my dark under-eye circles. After using it for a week, I noticed my under-eye area look lighter, and after using it on the regular for the past couple of months, it really has made my eyes look brighter and more awake.
I'm also a fan of this gel cleanser, which is packed with antioxidants. It's almost unbelievable that it's formulated with the same foods that are good for my body, such as kale, spinach, and green tea. It's basically green juice in a face wash.
I used to think face mists were unnecessary, and while they're not exactly essential, they do make my life a lot better. It's just so refreshing to spray it on my face in the mornings to really wake up my skin. This one contains hypochlorous acid plus water and sodium chloride to reduce any redness or irritation.
I use this retinol moisturizer every night, and it's really helped my skin feel hydrated and look brighter. I also think it does a good job of firming everything up. Plus, I love that I get my dose of retinol without the irritation that some other retinol products may have.
Our editors are big fans of these. You can use the peel pads daily to exfoliate and target the signs of aging. The sensitive-skin version is perfect if you're prone to irritation because you can still get the exfoliating powers without making your skin angry.
What is with Laneige and its amazing masks? This lip one always rescues my dry, peeling lips overnight. It's infused with some really nourishing ingredients like vitamin C, antioxidants, hyaluronic acid, and minerals.
I'd like to introduce you to my favorite daily moisturizer. It not only softens and hydrates my skin, but it also has ingredients like vitamin A, Chaga mushroom, and hyaluronic acid to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and even the skin's tone and texture. There's a version that comes with SPF, but I like to pair this one with Supergoop!'s Glowscreen.
I don't wear a full face of makeup very often, but when I do, I like to use a cleansing balm as my makeup remover. I find that because it's a creamy balm texture, it doesn't strip my skin or leave it totally parched. This one is especially good at dealing with intense eye makeup looks that can be hard to scrub off.
Number one, it just feels so luxurious that these eye masks are gold foil. And number two, they do such a good job at brightening my eyes and smoothing that area. They're a nice self-care treat!
I turn to this serum and put it on religiously whenever my skin is ultra dry. The gel formula is light and cooling, so whenever I apply it, I get that "ahhh" relief feeling. It contains glycerin, which locks in moisture.
Makeup
When I discovered this eyeliner, it totally changed how I do my eye makeup. I used to have so much trouble lining my eyes and would often avoid it because of impatience. But this gel crayon glides on so smoothly and easily. It stays on for a long time and doesn't smudge, either.
I don't normally wear foundation, and I prefer to just cover up some areas of redness or blemishes with a bit of concealer. Hourglass's concealer is full-coverage but looks very natural.
I really can't say no to a multitasking product, so this cream blush is in my everyday makeup rotation. The tinted balm can be used on both your cheeks and lips. It leaves a nice, natural hue that is buildable if you want more color.
When I do a full face of makeup, I always make sure I prep my skin with primer. I've been using this cult-favorite from Smashbox for years because it's so good at smoothing my skin and helps with my makeup's staying power.
I don't really think Urban Decay's Naked palettes need an introduction. They've been hugely popular for years for a reason. The variety of shades are so versatile for any look, and the pigment is just right.
You know how some bronzers can have you looking orange or like you got a really bad fake tan? Not with this one. The finish is so natural and not cakey.
I've been using Urban Decay's setting spray for almost 10 years now. I always know my makeup is going to stay put and my skin is going to look dewy when I spray it on.
Lip oils have been my favorite makeup product to use in quarantine. I love that this one leaves a nice tint while conditioning my lips. It's infused with bilberry seed oil, milk thistle extract, and vitamin E.
This is just another beloved makeup product that doesn't need much explanation. The mascara always leaves my lashes longer and voluminous-looking. My eyes really pop when I wear it.
I know I'm not alone in saying that Charlotte Tilbury's Pillow Talk is my favorite lipstick. I love that the shade looks so flattering and natural on me. Plus, it doesn't leave my lips dry.
Next up: Sephora's Spring Savings Event Is Here, and We Highly Support These 40 Splurges
