Happy National Sleep Week! What a week to celebrate by talking about night routines, good sleep...and good beauty sleep. This week long holiday feels appropriate since we sprung forward this past weekend and lost an hour of sleep...but I guess that's why the powers that be made it this week. 

It's no secret that for the past few years, I've been more intrigued by skincare products rather than makeup. Ever since the pandemic when the skincare boom really started, I've taken my skin more seriously and I think it's paying off. 

 I'm coming up on one year of working at Estee Lauder. It's been the best work year I've ever had and I love my job so much. I love working at a company that has such a rich history, a brand that I've admired since childhood and have such fond memories of; watching my mom and aunt use this skincare and makeup is ingrained in my brain.

One of the first purchases I made when I started working at the brand was our hero product: Advanced Night Repair Serum. It's a serum that does everything and anything you need it to; we like to say it's like 7 serums in 1 because it has that much power packed into a bottle.

As I've gotten older I've gotten more and more into my skincare routine. I always took good care of my skin but now it's even more important to me. I think what helps is that the beauty industry is also moving more toward skincare vs makeup and there is so much education around skincare. 

Skincare is so much fun and I take great pride in an elaborate, yet relaxing and fun routine. Also, skincare is something that stays pretty regular; yes, there are trends and moments where ingredients are buzzier than others but a skincare routine and the products you use tend to stay more consistent.

You can use the best, most expensive makeup in the world but if your skin is not healthy it won't make a difference.

Every few months (or weeks for that matter), I try a new product and disrupt my routine. However, I have been trying to keep the same (or similar) products in rotation for the past few months and I think it's working. My skin has never been clearer, smoother or more hydrated so what better time to share my latest and greatest skincare routine.

*My morning skincare routine is nonexistent, it's usually just sunscreen and moisturizer so I'm going to focus on my night routine.

Back in the day, I loved a good drugstore beauty product. Maybelline was my favorite brand and I loved the accessibility and affordability of all the brands. Over the years though, my love of higher-end brands took over and I couldn't be bothered with anything at the drugstore.

I found that nothing was innovative or exciting and a lot of the brands had price increases; why buy a $20 foundation when I could buy a $30 one at Sephora? I just didn't see the appeal anymore. Also, I hate shopping inside the drugstore, at least in my neighborhood. I find that the displays are confusing, you can never be too sure if something has been opened/swatched, and sometimes my drugstore didn't have the most up to date collections. There's always Ulta but I'm not big on Ulta, to be honest.

However, my feelings toward all of that have started to change as I've seen the drugstore vastly improve and release a few exciting things over the past few months.

I've been experimenting with more unique drugstore brands that aren't always readily available -- they take a little more work to locate and I'm fine with that.

As of right now, these are my current favorite finds from the drugstore!

Makeup Revolution Conceal and Define Concealer

I was definitely a little late with this purchase but better late than never. I was in the market for a new concealer and had been meaning to try this as it's been compared to Tarte Shape Tape. I picked it up a month or so ago and have been using it very consistently. It's definitely full coverage, not drying, and has a very large doe-foot applicator. It sits beautifully under the eye and I've really been loving it. They just released a hydrating version so I will definitely be picking that up as well. The best part? It's $7. I'm also very curious about their Conceal and Define Foundation.

Thayers Rosewater Toner

Pacifica Alight Clean Foundation

Makeup Revolution The Wants Palette

Bliss What a Melon Overnight Mask

What are your current favorite drugstore products?
xoxo
B

I've always been a sucker for the finer things in life and when it comes to beauty, luxury and higher end have always been my favorite. When I was first getting into the beauty space, I coveted everything I purchased from Sephora and when I shopped there, I was truly the happiest.

I had drugstore makeup that I liked, even loved but if you look at the prices of drugstore makeup now, it's not as cheap as one would think. When I realized that, I didn't see the point in buying makeup I didn't want just because it was a few dollars cheaper than what I really wanted in Sephora or Nordstrom.

*Obviously some drugstore makeup is just as great quality as the higher end but it's just my preference. 

Years later, I now have the ~luxury~ of being able to afford some really luxurious products and while some of these aren't super high end, they can still be considered luxury for the price point (in my opinion).

I've tried so many products over the years and by far, these are my favorite luxury (or higher end) products and items I would pretty much never be without, despite the high price tag.

Cle de Peau Beaute Concealer - $70

I bought this heavy duty, well talked about and expensive concealer as a birthday gift for myself years ago and I don't think I will ever be without it. It is a secret weapon of mine, covers all of my dark circles, blemishes and spots but doesn't end up cakey on your skin. I love the fact that it's a cream stick concealer instead of a liquid and I think that contributes to the ease of use and high coverage. It is travel-friendly (I bring it everywhere with me, seriously) and has SPF so it's a great addition to your beach bag.

If you are a concealer junkie or someone who has a lot of trouble with dark spots, circles, and blemishes, you need this concealer. It is worth $70 and I will repurchase for the rest of my life.

Tatcha Violet -C Radiance Mask - $68

I received a foil sample of this Tatcha mask, used it, saw instant results and immediately purchased the full size. This mask instantly brightens your skin thanks to the two types of Vitamin Cs infused in the violet mask; it has AHAs from Japanese fruits that help with anti-aging and is made for everyone, despite your skin type. Whenever I feel like my skin is dull and not looking its best, this mask truly brings it back to life without drying it out. It's the only mask that I've used that really makes a difference in how my skin looks. I love this mask so much, I've been highly considering purchasing the matching serum.

Tom Ford Lip Color in Sable Smoke - $55

Shiseido Facial Cotton - $12

What are some of your favorite luxury beauty items?

It's really fun to talk about and buy beauty products; whether it's concealer, lipstick, or eyeshadow, I love trying new things; I love reading about people trying new products and I love watching videos about it.

While that is all fun and games, there is a sector of the beauty industry that isn't talked about enough and it's the nonglamorous side of beauty. It's the stuff you don't show off, the items you pretty much need, not want. It could be a little gross and a little unsatisfactory so I figured I'd talk about my favorite nonglamorous beauty products! These are items that are not sexy but items I use constantly.

Venus Swirl Razor

Julep Cuticle Oil

I don't classify cuticle oil as a glamorous beauty product so here we are. I don't go to the nail salon to get manicures so I have to care for my cuticles at home. The Julep Roller On Oil is the best because it's compact, travel-friendly, and you don't have to worry about getting your entire hand full of oil. You just roll it onto the cuticle and you're all set. I keep this with me every day, no matter where I'm going. I also keep one on my nightstand if I need to apply before bed. It's hands down my favorite cuticle oil.

Emjoi Micro Pedi

This was one of my favorite beauty products of 2017 and that still rings true two years later. The Emjoi Pedi is an electronic callus remover and it just removes all the dead skin from your feet within seconds. Whenever my feet are feeling extra gross, I do this for a few minutes and suddenly my feet feel as if I just got the most luxurious spa pedicure. I only have to use it every few weeks and it's a lifesaver between pedicures. It's really easy to use, doesn't hurt, and the refills are pretty cheap on Amazon

Venus Waterless Razor

Since I was a little girl I always loved face masks. I'd always beg my mom to let me get a Freeman mask from the drugstore and whenever she obliged, I was obsessed with doing them a few times a week.

When I think about that, it's no surprise that I turned out to be a beauty blogger and work in the beauty industry.

That being said, face masks are definitely one of my favorite skincare products and probably my top 5 favorite beauty products ever. There is something so calming about laying in bed with a face mask on your skin and being able to fully relax while also helping your skin heal.

Nowadays there are face masks for pretty much every skincare concern you could imagine. Maybe it's not technically a skincare concern but you taking a preventative measure like using an anti-pollution or anti-aging face mask.

I have dry, sensitive skin so I do use face masks that cater to those concerns but I also love a great pore removing/detox mask. I don't discriminate against face masks -- I love all kinds!

I've been testing more and more face masks out and figured I'd round up my current favorites/most used/most repurchased. These masks will all fall within one of those categories.

*I am sticking to face masks -- not hands, eyes, feet, etc.



1. Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Pore Mask: This is a new mask that I only got a few weeks ago but I've never used a mask so much! I've used it every week, at least 1-2 times since I got it and I'm obsessed. I notice a slight difference in my skin but ultimately it feels really great on your skin. The effect afterward is even better -- the cooling and minty sensation on your face when you remove the mask makes it well worth it.

2. Peter Thomas Roth Irish Moor Mud Purifying Black Mask: I've had this mask for a few years and oh my goodness, this is the best face mask ever. It removes all the gunk from your skin while leaving it smooth and refreshed. Whenever I want to do a face mask but I'm not sure which one I want to do, this is my go-to. It's a mask that I 100% will repurchase when I'm done with it because it's something that I simply cannot be without.

3. Fresh Rose Face Mask: This is my ultimate hydration mask. Whenever my skin needs a tall glass of water, I ultimately go to this one. It's a very lightweight mask that has rose petals mixed into it (which is divine and makes for a great masking experience) and truly leaves your skin smooth and supple. It's much more than a mask -- I feel like it's a toner and lightweight moisturizer all in one. It's incredible and I highly recommend picking this up!

4. Drunk Elephant Baby Facial: This is a mask/treatment that has gone viral and is in many people's holy grail baskets. Well, it is THAT good! Drunk Elephant is bringing serious skincare into your home, without the help of a doctor and in perfectly beautiful Instagram worthy packaging. They've basically given us all the gift of a facial in a bottle -- and it's a facial that exfoliates and resurfaces the skin with the use of AHA and BHA, two important skincare ingredients that I recommend doing research on. My skin looks incredible after using this and I have to really limit myself because you shouldn't be using this more than 1-2 times a week.

5. Hey, Honey Take It Off Exfoliating Honey Peel Off Mask: I was on the hunt for a fun peel off mask that worked and I found it! This mask from Hey Honey is equally as fun to put on, peel off, and leaves your skin looking baby smooth. It exfoliates the skin, removes dead skin cells and blackheads and leaves your face brighter, smoother, and softer. It's such a good mask and great for all skin types. I highly recommend!

What are your favorite face masks right now? If you have any recommendations, leave them in the comments! 
xoxo
B

Self-care was a buzzword last year and it has continued well into 2018. To me, the definition of self-care is simple: it's doing what you need to do to care for yourself, to make sure you're in the best mental state.

Self-care could be saying no to going out on Saturday night, it could be going to the gym to clear your head, or simply having a cup of tea and reading a book. Self-care is taking care of yourself first, whether that is mental, physical, or emotion.

Self-care can be defined differently for everyone based on your interests and what eases you. When I'm in need of self-care, I light a few candles, stay off the computer, do a face mask and watch my favorite TV show.

Maybe if I'm feeling anxious, I'll go to the gym, come home and read a book. The possibilities are truly endless with self-care.

Since self-care and wellness have become their own industry, other industries have been cashing in on the buzz as well. That includes the beauty industry...

While I don't think these are marketed as self-care beauty items, I definitely classify them as that. I use them when I need a pick me up, or just need to better myself.



1. Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Mask: I have been intrigued by this mask since it came on the scene and I bought it last week. I've used it about 3 times since then and I'm in love. To me, it's the definition of a self-care mask because it's tingly, a gorgeous blue color, and it shows results -- my pores looked tighter after use and my skin looked more fresh & clear. Last week I was having an off day so I decided to take time with my skincare routine and apply this mask. Adding a few extra minutes of relaxation time was key and this mask was a huge factor in it. It also leaves a minty feeling on your skin afterward which I love!

2. AERIN Rose Lip Conditioner: Ever want to pamper yourself or just give yourself an extra luxurious feeling? That's when I use the AERIN Rose Lip Conditioner. Something about the packaging mixed with the rose scent and the balmy texture of this product makes me feel like a million bucks.

3. Jade Roller: Jade rolling is all the rage nowadays and I've had mine for a few months. However, I didn't spend $40+ on it; I bought the Jade Roller from Amazon for around $8 and it works just as well. It's naturally cool so when you roll it on your face, you get that icy feeling which contributes to the depuffing that Jade Rolling does. There's also something very relaxing about giving yourself a little face massage when you're feeling stressed.

4. Clean and Clear Night Relaxing Jelly Eye Sheet Mask: When I received this product for PR a few months back I wasn't expecting to fall in love with it. The point of this mask is pure relaxation; it covers the upper half of your face and eyes where stress and sleepiness show the most. It also has seaweed extract to help replenish and nourish the skin. Whenever I need some help falling asleep or just need to really relax and recharge, I throw this mask on, close my bedroom door, light a candle and diffuse some oil and just close my eyes. It is so refreshing and probably the most relaxing beauty product I have in my collection. I simply cannot get enough and highly recommend for everyone!

5. Josie Maran Argan Oil: Whenever I want to take my time with my skincare routine to give myself an extra boost of self-care, I reach for an oil -- specifically the OG Argan Oil. It seeps into the skin immediately, feels incredible when applying it and leaves your face glowing. I'm obsessed and want to slather this all over my body (which I sometimes do!)

6. LUSH Sleepy Lotion: Whenever I need to really relax, get a good nights sleep or even just wind down, this lavender scented lotion is my go-to. It's super moisturizing, very relaxing, and the scent is just divine. I highly recommend to everyone!!

What are your self-care beauty items?
xoxo
B

I've been very lucky in the fact that I always had really nice skin; I've always taken care of it and I think I owe a lot of it to that.

Since I was a tween, I was obsessed with using anti-acne products to keep my skin clear and that has continued well into adulthood.

While I may not struggle with acne on a daily basis there are times when it pops up and really throws a wrench in everything. I understand that I'm lucky to not deal with acne the way other people do but we're all human and we all get blemishes.

June is Acne Cleansing Month (which I think is really cool) and I've partnered with Clarisonic to talk about how their products help treat and prevent acne.


I've loved and used Clarisonic for years now. I first got one for Christmas a few years ago and it completely changed how my skin looked and felt. My skin was softer, brighter, and felt so deeply cleaned. It was an amazing change and since then, I've never been without a Clarisonic and am always jumping at the chance to talk about the device.



I've been using the Mia 1 Cleansing Device with the Acne Cleansing Brush Head, one that I've tried only once in the past, and I've been loving it!

The Mia 1 has one cleansing speed which I find super helpful, and it turns off immediately when you've cleaned enough. I think it's so helpful when a device is simple and straight to the point. It makes it so much easier to use and is easier to incorporate into your routine.



Using the Clarisonic doesn't take a lot of effort and the payoff is incredible. Sometimes my skin just needs a deep cleansing, especially when I feel a breakout coming on or when I take off a full face of makeup.

I've been using the Mia 1 for a solid two weeks and it arrived at the perfect time because I had a breakout in between my eyebrows (my least favorite place to get a pimple). Nothing was helping get rid of it but once I started using the Clarisonic Acne Cleansing Head along with the Pore & Blemish Cleanser (who knew Clarisonic made cleansers and skincare products?) I noticed a major difference.

The blemish didn't go away immediately -- nothing is magic, but it did speed up the process. Within a week or so, the blemish was gone and my skin looked fresher than ever.



I think it's important to say that I have ultra sensitive skin and the Clarisonic is super gentle on my skin. It's so safe for sensitive skin that you can use it twice a day. It's amazing and a device that I think everyone should have in their beauty collection.



I think my favorite thing about the Clarisonic is how deep it cleans your skin; it gets out all the impurities while still being super gentle and leaves your skin soft, supple, and clear. Because the Clarisonic sonic cleanses and gives you such a deep clean, your skin is naturally cleaner and doesn't give way to pimples.



Clarisonic is designed to remove pollutants, reduce the appearance of pores, and allows for your skincare products to better absorb into your skin. It also is the perfect solution for when your skin is tired and roughed up from a full face of glam makeup. There is no better feeling of removing your makeup and then using your Clarisonic which reveals fresh, soft and clean skin.



There is a reason it's the #1 cleansing device recommended by dermatologists -- the technology and quality of the Clarisonic are unlike anything else on the market.

If you're ready to add a Clarisonic to your routine, buy it now! Get 15% off a cleansing device with code HERCAMPUS until July 15th! 

My skin has not been in the best shape the past few weeks. I've been super dry and had some weird allergic reactions to a few things (I think a Charlotte Tilbury eye cream was to blame) so I've been really trying to get everything back to normal.

About a month ago I noticed that I felt super dry, everywhere. My mouth, nose, hands, cuticles, face, and body were just completely parched. I drink my weight in water each other (it's the only thing I drink) so something had to be done.

I've been in a huge beauty funk; I wasn't really taking care of my skin and I wasn't feeling any of my makeup and I was just over it. Within the past 2-3 weeks, I've hit a reset button and makeup/beauty is all I want to do.



It worked out well because I've kind of amped up my skincare routine, or at least started using some products a little more strategically.



1. Neutrogena Skincare: About a month ago I did a sponsored post on Instagram with Neutrogena. They sent me their Hydroboost line and holy hell, I've been obsessed. I've been out of the drugstore game for a while but this pulled me in. My three favorite products have been the Cleansing Lotion, Exfoliating Cleanser, and Multi-Vitamin Booster.

I love a good cleansing oil but this cleansing lotion is not as emollient as a cleansing oil and has a much better consistency in my opinion. It's gentle but removes all my makeup like a dream.

The Exfoliating Cleanser is also super gentle but it doesn't dry out my skin like some exfoliators can; it has tiny beads that aren't too rough and also has a great gel-like consistency. It deep cleans my skin and leaves it feeling fresh and hydrated.

Finally, the multi-vitamin booster serum has been great to lather on at night when my skin needs an extra boost. I haven't noticed a huge difference when I use it but I like to incorporate some kind of serum into the routine and this has been a great addition.

2. Tatcha Violet C Radiance Mask: I don't think this can really count since I used it once, and it was a foil packet sample but holy crap, I'm buying the full size. My skin was feeling very discolored, uneven, and blotchy last weekend and I was fed up with it. I knew this mask had amazing reviews and I knew I had a sample of it. I slathered the violet mask on, left it on for 15 minutes and was stunned at the results. My skin looked totally different; a lot of the spots were gone and my skin looked brighter. The results have lasted almost a week later. I am stunned at the magic that is in this mask and I need more of it. I have never seen a skincare item act so fast and so well.



3. Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask: If you have seen my Instagram post, you know I've fallen in love with the latest social media beauty craze. Star influencer Mariann Hewitt launched her brand Summer Fridays a few weeks ago and the first product is this Jet Lag Mask. It's very aesthetically pleasing in terms of packaging and is perfect in the formula. It's made to be a mask that will hydrate your parched and ragged skin, two things that happen to your skin when you're constantly flying and feeling jet lagged (get the name?). A special thing about this mask is that it is a white cream but doesn't look like a regular face mask when applied on your skin. It's basically clear or looks like a regular moisturizer. Since receiving it a few weeks ago from Sephora, I haven't used it as a mask. I use this nightly as a night cream, after my Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil or the Neutrogena Serum. I wake up and my skin looks healthier, plumper, and just better all around. I never, ever want to be without this mask.

4. Drunk Elephant Baby Facial: I might've mentioned this once before, either in a video or in an old blog post but I've been thoroughly enjoying this mask lately. It's like a reset button for my face and I put it on whenever I feel like I need to even my face out, or when I just need to get rid of dead skin cells. There is a reason it's so popular and it's because it really works. Similar to the Tatcha mask, I see immediate results, like I actually went and got a facial, after I use it. It's expensive AF but if you could get the mini size like I did, I recommend it!


What are your current favorite skincare products?
xoxo
B

So I do this post every year and I figured it was time to take a little break from all the blogmas stuff, even though I really am enjoying that.

I try to do this post every season because as much as I love the products I recommend, I love to change things up. I get bored very easily so once I finish something, I'm onto something new. Hence why I'm always sharing new things.



So far this season my skin hasn't been acting up too much...yet. I might owe that to the honey serum I talked about in my November favorites because it really has completely changed my skin. However, my skin is still dry and still has it's moments so I wanted to walk you through my current products and what has been really working for me the past few months.


I've been obsessed with the Hey Honey Serum and I need the full size like yesterday. I talked about this in my November favorite as mentioned above so I won't go into too much detail but it has really changed my skin for the better.

I have a few different oils I use in rotation of each other; the Laura Mercier Rose Oil, the Drunk Elephant Marula Oil, and Josie Maran Argan Oil -- they are all pretty similar and really penetrate the skin for deep hydration and feel incredible on the skin before bed.

Something I recently added to my routine was a Jade Roller. I can't tell if it actually does anything but I really enjoy it. It's like a mini facial massage and perhaps it does get the product you put on your face, deeper into the skin. I just run the roller all over my face in the morning and night (after I apply my skincare) and it's very cooling to the skin. I recommend picking one up from Amazon, it's worth the $8.

I finally got a full size of the Benefit Total Moisture Cream and I forgot how much I loved it. It's super thick and heavy but absorbs right into the skin so your face isn't greasy. It feels so cooling on the face and is just amazing. It's hands down one of the best moisturizers I've ever tried.



I love a good mask, especially an eye mask (I'll do a full post soon on all my mask favorites) and one that I (along with my mom) have really been enjoying are the VII Code Oxygen Eye Masks. They aren't slimy or greasy on the face and I notice a depuffing aspect for sure.

The eye cream that I currently have is the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue but honestly, I have been forgetting to use it. I may have to try a different eye cream soon because I'm not that crazy about this one.

Anyways.... that's it! Those are my favorite skincare products of the moment!

What are yours? Give me suggestions ;)
xoxo
B
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These items were sent to me via PR

Body scrubs are something I always want to use, but can never find one that fits the bill. I'm very particular about the consistency, scent, and after feeling of a scrub. There are body scrubs that I like that are actual body washes, like from St. Ives or Softsoap but sometimes I want a really good exfoliation.

I haven't found something that really checks everything off my list, until now...


Simply Scrub are organic body scrubs that come in a variety of different scents. Each scrub is 100% natural and contain different ingredients that will help your skin based on what kind of concern you have.

On their website, they have a niffy little tool where you could choose your skin trouble and it'll tell you which scrub to purchase.

For example, I clicked on eczema which I've talked about on the blog a bit, and they recommend the Rose scrub (one of which I have). I think that's so helpful because you can find exactly what you're looking for without guessing which scrub will help your skin.

The scrubs you can choose from are: Coffee, Chocolate, Rose, and Soursop. They come in different sizes: a small jar or a larger bag. You could even buy them in a giftpack which is perfect for the holiday season coming up.



When Simply Scrub reached out to me and I read all the information about them and their product, I jumped at the chance to try some out. Coffee scrubs are very common nowadays and you could find them pretty much in every store, including Sephora & Ulta, so I opted to try something different; chocolate and rose.

The chocolate scrub is good for acne, blackheads, and dark spots while the rose is good for eczema, exfoliating, and dead skin.

When I opened the scrub, I noticed that it wasn't soaking wet. Usually scrubs I've tried in the past, that are in jars like the Simply Scrub, are soaked in their ingredient while scrubs that I've tried that are in bags, are dry as bone. This was somewhere in the middle which I love because it made it slightly less messy, less slimy, and was easier to apply to my skin.

Both scrubs are very grainy but in the best way possible -- it didn't hurt as I exfoliated and honestly felt so good on my skin.





I don't use these everyday as I don't want to exfoliate everyday, and if I'm being honest, I'm a little lazy so I haven't noticed a difference in my skin but I do know that after using these scrubs, my skin is baby soft and smooth.

One major difference I did notice immediately after using the chocolate scrub was that the dead skin on my elbows was completely gone. I didn't even work it that hard into my elbows but it worked like a dream.



Even though all my beauty products aren't natural and it's not something that I generally gravitate toward, I like the fact that these are natural because I can scrub better knowing that my skin won't be irritated by them.

If you're on the market for a new scrub, I highly recommend checking out Simply Scrub. Natural, organic, good results, and a great price tag -- it doesn't get much better than that!

xoxo
B

This post was sponsored by Her Campus Media, UNiDAYS, and REN Skincare

When I was in college, I knew that student discounts existed but it was not something that I took advantage of. Every time I went into a store, my first priority was not to ask if they offered a student discount but you'd be surprised at how many places do!

As a college student, money is tight and you need to cut corners however you can and there is a website that makes it so much easier...

UNiDAYS is a free service that gives you all the best student discounts and savings in one place. They have partnered with hundreds of retailers to help save college students money, and honestly, what is better than that?

Using this student savings service will help making back to school season easier... you can buy all your home items as well as a new Fall wardrobe.

Aside from the discounts (from brands like Apple, Urban Outfitters, Bed Bath and Beyond) they also offer weekly giveaways and a blog that is filled with career, social, and shopping advice. It really is your all in one college website, which to me, is always super helpful during the best four years of your life.



Now... onto another exciting part... I was able to get a few REN Skincare products from UNiDAYS since REN is a brand that offers a discount through the website.

I've had a handful of other REN products but I've been wanting to try more. The two products I chose have been a wonderful addition to my skincare routine and I'm so happy I was able to get them.

The Flash Hydro Boost is a moisturizer and a plumping emulsion to make your skin look fresh and beautiful. The interesting part of this product is that you apply it on dry skin and then massage a bit of water into your face to have it really absorb and supercharge the skin.



I've been using this for a few weeks (not regularly because sometimes I'm lazy) and I like the way it makes my skin feel. It is a bit awkward at first, wetting your face after applying moisturizer but it works out nicely.

The second product I chose was the V-Cense Revitalising Night Cream. I needed a new night cream desperately and this looked promising. It's really thick and emollient, locking in all the moisture your skin needs to heal and repair over night. This is going to be wonderful once the temperature drops and it gets freezing!

All in all, my experience with REN Skincare and UNiDAYS was super positive and I'm so happy that there is a resource like this out there for young college students.



UNiDAYS is a company that I wish I knew about when I was in college because we all know how much I love online shopping and I would've saved so much money (or spent more money because I was saving so much!)

I love skincare almost as much as I love makeup and I love when I find products that are interesting and different. It's even better when those products actually work and become a staple in my routine. This summer, my skin has been freaking out a bit and I think it's probably just adjusting to the heat.

I recently did a review of traditional skincare products that I've been using, and I'm still loving all of those but recently, I've found a few that I've really been loving and wanted to round them up for you!



When Sheet Masks: I've talked about these before but I cannot get enough. I was just sent the entire line by the company and got to try a few I haven't before, like Makeup Base. They also went through a repackaging and this new packaging is just as cute as before but has a lot of new information on the back. I love a face mask to soothe my skin after the sun or when I just need a little extra TLC and these have been my favorite for such a long time.



Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask: I was looking for something new for my lips (lip balms are one of my favorite beauty products) and I saw this with rave reviews on Sephora. It comes with a little spatula that is a huge help to apply it and makes it easier. It smells like bubblegum and goes on super thick and creamy. I feel it soothe my lips as soon as I apply it and through the night I know it's working. I wake up in the morning and I can still feel it on my lips. I've never had a product work so well and I'm really obsessed. I can tell a difference of nights I use this and nights I don't. It's only $20 so I recommend going out and getting it.


Herbivore Botanicals After Sun Spray: I don't spend a ton of time in the sun but when I do I feel the after effects of it, even if I apply sunscreen. I was scrolling through Instagram and saw this baby. I immediately ordered it and have been using it for about 3 weeks. I LOVE it! It's so soothing but doesn't sting and really makes my skin softer and a little less irritated after a day in the sun. It's a must have for the summer.

Below are a few more products that I've been using and I can see actually working (especially the BooBoo Zap by Benefit which is so hard to find!)
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As a self-diagnosed beauty addict, I am always trying new products. I am constantly searching for the next greatest product, browsing the new arrivals pages on Sephora, Ulta, and Nordstrom, looking to see what my favorite brands have recently put out.

If there is a new product on the market, I usually have tried it even if it was just a bonus sample from a Sephora order.

However, all that being said, I do have some tried and true favorites. When I was thinking about what products I've repurchased I felt like I didn't have enough but when I really looked in my collection there were so many products that I've bought more than once.

Now, there are a few products that I've only repurchased once because there are a handful of products that I've loved and bought again but these are my MOST REPURCHASED (two or more times).

If you're interested in my items I've repurchased only once, here's a little look:




Now onto the big items (which are mostly skincare because obviously, we go through skincare a bit more)



1. Simple Micellar Water: This is my holy grail of face cleansers and I don't know how many times I've repurchased. I use this every morning as my cleanser instead of using an actual face wash and I love it. It's so easy and quick but also leaves my skin feeling fresh and clean without a horrible residue. I've used the Garnier micellar water and I much prefer Simple. Simple is my favorite drugstore skincare brand and I've used so many of their products but this is my far my favorite. I highly recommend trying out a micellar water.

2. Tarte Frixxtion Stick: I have a huge post on this so I won't go into too much detail but I think I've purchased 4 or 5 of these since I posted it last year. I leave it in my shower and wash my face with it every night. It's compact, easy, and I love how the charcoal really deep cleanses. Stick cleansers are all the rave right now but this is my #1 ride or die.

3. Eva NYC Hair Mask: I've used this hair mask so many times I've lost track of the number. I always switch between this and the Briogeo one but Eva NYC is cheaper and just as good. My family loves it too and it makes such a difference in our thick hair. I only wash my hair 1-2 times a week and I don't even use regular conditioner anymore. This is my holy grail, go to conditioner!



4. Tarte Eye Brightener Cream: I have a love affair with eye creams and all eye products; this is the first eye cream I ever truly loved and have purchased over and over again. It's hydrating and truly brightening; it also doesn't irriate my under eyes which is very important to me. I notice a differnce when I use this and if you need a good eye cream, try this baby.

5. Benefit Cosmetics Ooh La Lift: This was the first makeup item I ever purchased from Sephora and since then I've repurchased many times. It seems a little gimmicky but try it, just once! It brightens and lifts the under eye; it also makes a great 'primer' for your concealer.

6. Too Faced Better Than Sex: Is this everyone's most repurchased mascara? It's definitely mine and it's my go-to mascara. It creates fluffy lashes that are long and volumnious; Better Than Sex might actually be better than sex...

What is your most repurchased makeup item? Give me suggestions!! 
xoxo
B

Nighttime and getting ready for bed is one of my favorite times of the day. I am very into relaxing, as if you couldn't already tell, so I'm very into calming down before getting snuggly in my bed.

I've been wanting to do a nighttime routine post since I started my blog almost 5 YEARS AGO but I just never got around to it. It's also different now that I have my own room and have really perfected the ritual/routine.

I believe that it's really important to calm yourself before bed and get into the right mindset before getting ready to sleep. I've had many a nights where I was too anxious to sleep and tried to force myself asleep but ended up waking up every hour because my head wasn't in the right place.

Do whatever you find relaxing an hour or so before getting into bed and just calmly get yourself into the right frame of mind.

Now, I've read enough lifestyle and wellness articles to know that you're not supposed to be on your phone, use phone as an alarm clock, or even watch tv before bed but I go against all those rules. As someone who never has the TV off, I sleep with it on too. It turns off in the middle of the night but if I wake up and can't really sleep, I turn it right back on. The only way I can NOT sleep with the TV on is if someone is in the room with me, otherwise, it's on.

I've been this way since I was a baby -- I can't do anything without my tv on. When I used to have phone interviews when I first graduated college, I needed the TV on and just would put it on mute. If I'm home, my TV is on.



Back to the nighttime routine....

1. Shower: I always shower at night and it's usually the thing that calms me down most. I take scorching hot showers even though it's really bad for my dry skin but I'm a rebel and refuse to listen. I never shower in the morning because I'm too tired, and there's nothing worse than being cold after a shower in the wee hours of dawn. I also like to wash the grossness of the New York City subway off of me at night.

2. Blog, Article, Etc: After my shower, I'll usually sit down at my desk (or in my bed) to finish some blog work, write an article, or schedule some social media posts. I'll admit, there are many days where this doesn't happen because I am so exhausted and the thought of even opening my computer is a struggle. It is however, usually part of my routine because sometimes when I get into bed too early and know I didn't do any blog work, I feel guilty and end up cracking the laptop open anyway.



3. Oil Diffuser/Candles: Post shower, I get my room in the mood. I have string lights above my window that I turn on, light a candle, and if I'm feeling extra anxious, I'll turn on my oil diffuser. The mood lighting and scents instantly make me feel super relaxed and truly make all the difference.

4. Skincare: At this point, I'm probably tuned into whatever show is on TV that night; Vanderpump Rules, Beverly Hills Housewives, This Is Us, and of course, TGIT on ABC are usually the main culprits. This is the time that I'll start my skincare routine. I probably washed my face in the shower with my Tarte Frixxtion Stick but if not I use my Tatcha Powder or Clarisonic with a gentle cleanser. I then follow up with my oil, serum, and a heavy moisturizer. I may also throw in a sheet mask or regular mask to uber relax if I'm in the mood.

5. Journal: If I remember, I'll write in my regular journal or gratitude journal. It's really important to me to write down my thoughts and write down how I'm feeling or what kind of day I had. I definitely do not write a regular journal entry every night and I just started with the gratitude journal in the new year because I wanted to be more mindful of good things that happened to me or what I was thankful for that day. It helps with my anxiety and to just give me peace of mind.


6. Read: I try to read every night but I'm not always successful. I have a stack of books on my nightstand but also have a few books on my iPad that I've been reading. This is also something that distracts my mind and calms me down -- mind you that the TV is on mute while this is going on (it always comes back to the TV).

7. Meditate: I've been SO into meditating before bed. I downloaded the app "Night Melodies" and they have so many different meditations to do to soothe you to sleep and they also have a white noise feature where instead of meditating, you could just listen to any white noise you choose. This happens when my TV is basically on mute, I have my Henri Bendel eye mask on, and I'm ready to go to sleep. When meditating, if I'm not an anxious mess, I'm pretty much asleep within 15 minutes. It's a miracle worker!



In the midst of all of this I'm in and out of bed to get water or go to the bathroom, and I'm on and off on my phone. My phone life doesn't sleep until I do.

Another thing to mention is that I take my medication from birth control to my anxiety medication; what I've discovered in the past few months is something that has changed my sleeping routine. HUM Nutrition popped up at Sephora a few months ago, before the new year, and I was intrigued. I'm very caught up on herbal and all natural supplements that assist with stress, anxiety, and sleep so when I saw Beauty zzZz, I was intrigued.

It's an all natural supplement that helps promote a restful sleep; it contains melatonin and B6 and is classified as a vegetarian tablet. I do not take this every night because I don't need it every night but on the nights when I'm feeling fussy or know that I had a hard day and may be worked up, I'll take one about 10-15 minutes before I go to sleep.

Now, the difference between this and something like Zzquill is that it kicks in right away and doesn't leave you drowsy in the morning. I've never felt more refreshed in the morning than when I take this. It puts you to sleep quick but you're not groggy at all in the morning. If you have trouble sleeping, I highly recommend trying these; they're only $10 on Sephora.com and well worth it. (I've never tried actual melatonin because I'm afraid it'll leave me groggy in the morning. I could take this on a work night and not be afraid of how I'll feel)

(PS: I am NOT a doctor so I don't know how things will work for you but personally, as someone with anxiety and sleep trouble, this has worked wonders for me!)

After all of this is complete, I turn the lights off, blow the candles out, and relax with some of my favorite TV until I fall asleep.

What is your nighttime routine? Is it similar to mine? Share below in the comments!

xoxo
B