It’s been quite a while since I posted a monthly favorites video and I’ve had quite a few beauty faves accumulating. So, for today’s post, I’m sharing five of my current beauty-related favorites!
1. Facials
Last week I partnered up with Gilt City Chicago & Lustre Skin Boutique and visited Jennifer Clower for my first ever facial! I’ve heard mixed reviews on facials from friends and fellow bloggers, so I was excited but also a bit nervous about the experience. I was in the midst of my last finals week over, so it ended up being the perfect way to relax and de-stress! Jennifer made me feel right at home in their beautiful, airy West Loop location and she was really gentle while still being thorough throughout the whole process.
Jennifer’s facials focus on oxygenating, hydrating, balancing, and healing the skin while using organic products. To start off, she did a gentle mandelic acid peel on my skin. In between each step of the facial she’d put a warm cloth on my face which was infused with essential oils and she’d spray on a toning mist. Next, she did some gentle microdermabrasion and a few minor extractions. My skin felt absolutely fantastic after this part of the facial! We finished off with an oxygenating night treatment to calm my skin and she did a gentle neck and arm massage while the oxygen treatment worked its magic. After my facial I felt so incredibly relaxed and my pores and skin felt amazing! Based on my experience, I’d 100% recommend anyone to go visit Jennifer at Lustre Skin Boutique. She was awesome!
2. Laura Mercier Setting Powder
On a daily basis, I don’t wear much makeup. However, I’ve always used setting powder and I’ve always had trouble finding a brand and a product that I really loved and could rely on. Some made my face look chalky and white (and I’m already pretty pale as is) while others would dry out my skin or come right off within hours. I discovered Laura Mercier’s pressed setting powder a few years ago, but the problem I’d always run into is that the powder in the compact would crack and then the application process would get ridiculously messy. I switched to the loose powder version a few months ago and it was a game changer! I will definitely will be repurchasing it when I run out, which still won’t be for a while.
3. Lipsense
My Grand Big, Kristina, from my sorority recently started selling Lipsense and she sent one over for me to try out. It stays on so incredibly well, to the point that it’s hard to get off lol. This product genuinely lasts all day. I got a more shimmery color, Violette (shown above), so I’m still a fan of my Colourpop liquid lipsticks for matte lip colors, but “Violette” is perfect for when I want a bit more sparkle. I would definitely say that Lipsense lasts longer than Colourpop, it’s also harder to get off, but it’s pretty comfortable to wear! I felt I slight tingly sensation the first time I used it, but it didn’t hurt and I don’t notice it as much now when I apply the color. I’d suggest trying Lipsense out if you love wearing lipstick, but hate reapplying all day long.
4.Gold Plaited
You might remember the look above from when I went to Carnation Ball back at the end of March. Gold Plaited did both my hair and makeup for the event and they did a pretty awesome job if I do say so myself! They have unlimited packages available which are great for summer if you know you’re going to be attending lots of events! It’s charged on a monthly basis and if you’re someone who needs your hair and makeup done regularly, it’s definitely something to consider. The girls over at Gold Plaited were all absolutely awesome and so incredibly sweet on top of being talented!
5. Harry’s Razors and Shaving Cream
The guys and gals over at Harry’s were super sweet and sent over their Winston set for me to try out! Their foaming shave gel has become my new fave because it makes your skin super soft afterwards. As soon as I run out, I plan on picking up another bottle! Another huge plus when it comes to Harry’s is their price point! It’s way lower than most companies and their products are still fantastic quality.
What are some beauty faves that you’ve been loving lately?