New Year, Some New Makeup.
Hi everybody! Today I have my first beauty favorites of the year. My birthday is in January, and its been quite a month. My heart goes out to Australia. I’m heartbroken thinking about the half billion animals that have perished in the fires. It’s crucial that we do our part, even if it’s small. Please consider donating to WIRES Wildlife Rescue or the Australian Red Cross. If you know of other organizations for wildlife or disaster relief, please share them in a comment below. Now on to my beauty picks for January.
Bubblewrap
The Glossier Bubblewrap eye + lip plumping cream is my favorite skincare product from Glossier, and I’ve tried many. This is the packaging I wished the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye Concentrate Matrix had. It comes in a pump, so it’s cleaner, and you have control over the amount of product you dispense, so there’s no waste. I wish I could see how much product is left, other than that the packaging is brilliant.
Formula wise, it’s a lighter cream than I’m used to. I want a rich cream for under the eyes because I have dry skin and need a lot of hydration. Bubblewrap provides the right amount of moisture. I use it both day and night; it absorbs quickly and works fabulously under makeup. I pack a bit more on in the evenings, and it’s great for lips too. I had my doubts on how effective it would be, but it works! It doesn’t envelop your lips with moisture like Nuxe Reve de Miel, for example. It’s not a heavy balm, yet it magically makes your lips smoother.
Forgotten Favorite
My rediscovery of the month is MAC Eye Kohl in Teddy. I forgot how much I loved this eyeliner. It’s been in my stash for years; I finally used it up and didn’t purchase it again, now it’s back in my life. I recently made a Back to MAC trip and took the opportunity to stock up on a few items. Teddy is a gorgeous copper brown that looks stunning on the eyes. Lately, I’ve been applying it to the top lash line and blending it out like a shadow. I love MAC eyeliners. To this day, I use Coffee almost daily. They have lasting power, and the formula is truly phenomenal. You can’t go wrong with a MAC eyeliner. Definitely a favorite for January.
Heavenly Hopp
The Rodin Luxury Lip & Cheek Oil in Heavenly Hopp has been in my makeup bag the entire month. I’ve heard positive things about Rodin and had to try it. It reminds me a bit of the Clarins Lip Oils. Although the formula is different, the packaging is similar for the exception of the wand. Each shade comes with a different illustration by Donald Robertson; the doggies are super cute.
Heavenly Hopp is a pretty beige nude. It gives a nice hint of color to the cheeks, nothing over the top. It can feel a bit sticky, so that may be off-putting to some. I mainly use it on my lips to add shine. It’s a wonderful everyday throw in your purse, easy product. I still prefer the Clarins Lip Oils; they’re less expensive. Not sure about the price point of these, though I do like it.
I’ve been curious about the Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel for years. I finally pulled the trigger and bought it last month. First, there’s nothing universal about this shade. I doubt it will show up skin tones deeper than mine; it’s even on the lighter side for me. With that said, I like it. The formula is creamy, and forgiving if you put too much on. I put it all over my face with a large brush like the It Cosmetics Heavenly Luxe Wand Ball Powder Brush or the Real Techniques blush brush and blend away. It warms up my complexion, has a natural finish, and blends like a dream. Sometimes I skip the foundation, and I’m good for the day.
I will say something I never understood about this product is why it’s habitually sold out. And now that I have it, I still don’t understand. It’s not groundbreaking, Meryl. Yes, it’s a lovely bronzer and it’s a favorite this month for a reason, but you don’t need it. There are many bronzers that can provide similar results.
A few extras
Essie Angora Cardi is my nail polish pick for the month; it’s been on my toes all of January actually. It’s the beautiful mauve rose; perfect for this time of year. I gravitate toward burgundy tones in the winter, and this one always gives me tons of compliments.
Finally, I have to tell you about the Bath and Body Works White Caramel Cold Brew Candle. It’s been a long time since I’ve shopped at Bath and Body Works. Recently, they had a big sale, so I stopped by to purchase a bath gel, and of course, I had to check out their candles. The White Caramel Cold Brew Candle smells heavenly. If you like warm, sweet gourmand, give it a try. I’m impressed with the quality too; this particular scent reminded me of one of the Nest candles. I want to stock up!
What are your January favorites? Any new makeup you’re eyeing?