August Beauty Favorites | 2018

Last of the lazy days…

So summer is almost gone, and although I’m excited about fall, I’m going to miss the lazy days of summer. I’ve kept my makeup fuss-free and effortless this month; I don’t if it’s the heat or just pure laziness that has me reaching for the same things over and over. I do have some nail bits to share with you, and a moisturizer that’s holy grail status! 

Let’s start with skincare. I’ve been on the waitlist for the Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream (1.7 oz/$48.00) at Sephora for months. I thought they were never going to restock it, but they finally did, and I’m in love. I’m a big fan of their Ceramidin Sheet Mask; and I thought if the cream is as good as the mask, I’m set.

The cream looks a little odd; it’s tan and smells a bit medicinal. However, the consistency is lovely. It goes on super smooth and feels very light. If I have any dry patches or flakiness, this takes care of it. It leaves my skin so soft and plump and it also provides a nice base for makeup. It’s my current go-to day cream. If you have a sensitive or eczema-prone skin, you may want to give this a try.

no muss, no fuss

Last month I used up my Maybelline Total Temptation Mascara and decided to give their Lash Sensational Mascara (0.32 oz/$6.99) a try. I know; I’m late to the party on this one. This mascara is so good I’ve been using it practically every day since. I love the mauve tube; it looks cool and sleek. Most importantly, the formula is fantastic! It stays put all day without smudging or flaking.

At first, I didn’t like the brush; I thought it would be awkward to use. It has longer bristles on one side and short ones on the other. I use both sides on my top lashes, and it just gives the most full and fluttery lashes. I love dramatic lashes every day, and this mascara provides so much length and volume that I’m completely hooked. Maybelline makes the best drugstore mascaras hands down!

For lips, the Lancôme Juicy Shaker in 283 Berry In Love (0.22 oz/$22.00) is in heavy rotation this month. I adore the formula of these juicy shakers; I own a few different shades. They’re ultra lightweight and comfortable on the lips, and it feels hydrating and nourishing. You can easily build it up for an intense pop of color, or dab a little in the center of the lips for a light stain. I throw it in my bag for touch ups throughout the day. I love this berry color; it pairs nicely with any eye look and I use it as blush too. It’s one of my summer staples! 

Forgotten Favorite

Talk about a blast from the past! I went deep into my archives and found MAC Rubenesque Pro Longwear Paint Pot (0.17 oz/$22.00). I don’t want to sing its praises too much because I believe MAC discontinued it. Rubenesque is a light coral with a gold frost finish. It’s such a gorgeous shade; I think it’s a good dupe for Tom Ford’s Sphinx.

It feels nice to go through my stash and rediscover old favorites. Another reason I brought it out was because I wanted a base to use with the MAC x Aaliyah Age Ain’t Nothing Palette. Recently, I started using it on its own for a light wash, add mascara, and I’m out the door.

An ode to Gelcream

My favorite beauty account on Instagram is Gelcream. Yana Sheptovetskaya is a genius; she’s has great style and of course beautiful hands. I would die for her nails. Sadly, my nails are in horrid condition, and I strategically hide them with nail polish. I read the Into The Gloss article on Gelcream’s Guide To Photogenic Hands, and she mentioned the Dior Crème Abricot Nail Cream ($28.00), so I decided to give it a go. 

I remember my mom using this back in the day. It was created in the 60’s so it’s a real cult classic. For me, it’s more of a love/hate relationship. The product is super thick and sticky, and can be a little uncomfortable. Once I figured how to use it properly it was much better. You only need a tiny amount; I just lightly tap my finger into the product and thoroughly massage it into my cuticles until it’s all gone then leave it overnight. I’ve noticed a big improvement with the softness my cuticles, and I pick at them less. 

This month I’ve been wearing the J. Hannah Nail Polish in Relic (5 oz/$19.00) non-stop. It’s another Gelcream recommendation, and I love it! It’s a color I wouldn’t normally go for. I’ve never owned a yellow polish or piece of yellow clothing for that matter. But this yellow is different; the photos do not do it justice. 

J. Hannah describes the color as gold leaf. It’s a unique shade with a Deco vibe to it. I can see myself wearing it tons in the fall. It’s the best yellow nail polish in my opinion; it looks so modern, and sophisticated on the nails. I highly recommend it! 

That’s it for August Favorites! What are some of your faves for the month?

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