For my final post of the year, I thought I’d do a round up of my most used and repurchased skincare and makeup. Overall I did manage to buy less this year so it’s easy for me to see which products have been firmly cemented into my staples since their initial purchase.
It’s also good to see which ones have been repurchased, something I can see clearly when I read back through my blog. It’s a good reminder to enjoy the products I already have.
Acure Seriously Soothing Cleansing Cream
I started using this cream cleanser before I started my blog and I’m still using it. It’s definitely the best one I’ve found for removing makeup, even mascara. It’s creamy and foams just like a conventional one, without being harsh or stripping. I always, always have a tube on hand for my end of the day cleanse or cleansing off face masks.
Lepaar Yuzu Vitamin C Serum & Velvet Sole Lip & Face Balm
Unfortunately for me, it seems like the Yuzu Vitamin C is a limited creation. Lepaar are purely dependent on the availability of Yuzu production on their own farm, which perfectly embodies how truly artisan this serum is. I have loved how gentle this is, while still brightening and improving my skintone and texture. It only takes a drop, mixed in with my other serums. The Velvet Sole Lip & Face Balm does the same. It’s not instant but after a few applications it leaves my skin glowing. Silky soft balms are a must-have in my routine, but this one has been my favourite.
QueenBee Secrets Bee Pure Balm
This is a much thicker balm which might not be everyone’s choice, but when I apply this consistently my skin ends up so smooth and plump. It improves fine lines and the bounce in my skin is noticeably better. The manuka honey and royal jelly are so nourishing, but since it’s so occlusive it seals in all my other serums. A little hint though, it needs to warm up to apply easily and you can also apply sparingly if you don’t like the feeling of a thick layer. As it starts off hard, I scoop out some and push it onto my skin so it sticks. I wait for a few minutes and by then it’s softened so I can rub it it without disrupting my skincare underneath.
Okoko Cosmétiques Lip Serum & L’élixir de Pureté
After continued use of this beautifully marbled lip serum, my lips are much improved! They’re not as dry, feel plumper and they hardly ever crack. I will definitely repurchase the lip serum, however the L’élixir is more on the hope to repurchase list. It’s one of the most expensive items I’ve ever purchased and I’ve never actually purchased it, both times have been a gift with purchase. I do like how well it keeps my skin looking bright and clear, while also keeping it hydrated.
I’m never without some form of pimple patch. I know they’re not the most environmentally friendly (their composition, combined with the packaging) but they save my skin. Under the skin pimples are hardly a problem for me anymore, but when does pop up, I just deal with it with one of these. It takes my mind of it, the microdarts really work at penetrating and treating the pimple and it stops me from mindlessly touching it or worrying about it. In the long run, it keeps my skin clearer and I have less dark spots to try and fade afterwards.
I’ve actually run out of these, so I had nothing to photograph, but I use these constantly. Whitehead pimples are the more common issue with my skin and again, these save it. For some reason my pimples don’t go away the first time unless I put on of these on. It’s so satisfying to see it that’s it pulled out any gunk. It also dries it out so more doesn’t form. My pimples clear up so much quicker after using a pimple patch. They’re also one of the few brands that don’t add actives such as tea tree oil to the patch, which means I can use them without being sensitized.
I have continued to adore the eyeshadows from Kjaer Weis, in fact I’ve purchased more. The ones I currently have are: Charmed, Grace, Generosity, Magnetic Brown, Earthy Calm & Green Depth.
This has been my go to foundation for a few years now. On and off though, sometimes I feel like this has too much coverage for what I want that day. So yes, I still like it and I’ll keep it in my rotation. I do want to keep experimenting with application techniques to make it fit with what mood I’m in.
Kjaer Weis cream blush is perfection, that’s all I can say! Mostly, I just love the two shades Joyful and Desired Glow. They work perfectly with my skintone. I’ve also taken to using them as a lipstain. I like that I can press them into my lips without them being too balmy. I find that this works better under a mask.
Ilia Beauty Multi-stick in Lady Bird & All of Me
The two shades I like are quite similar to the two Kjaer Weis blushes, but these sticks are better for travel. They’re also better during those times when my skin isn’t playing nice. They have a creamier consistency, with a dewier finish which is better if my lips or cheeks are dry.
I’m very lucky that I have long lashes and I hate it when mascara builds up too much to be thick and clumpy. I like that this mascara applies a thin layer first, leaving my lashes still looking wispy and doll-like. If you twist the application brush to the volume side it does apply heavier immediately but it’s still controllable. Otherwise the lengthening side applies it more sparingly if you want it.
I feel like Artis Brushes have the reputation now as being an expensive brush for the sake of it. They definitely feel a little indulgent. That said, I continue to reach for the Oval 4 whenever I blend out my Kjaer Weis foundation. I also find that the Oval 6 is perfect for patting on pressed powder. I definitely find myself only reaching for the eye brushes only for popping on a touch of highlight on the middle of the lids and not a full eye look.
As we come to the end of yet another year, I’m looking forward to finding some more sustainable and environmentally conscious skincare and makeup! I hope you all had a lovely year and you stay safe and well.
Lepaar Review – Yuzu Vitamin C Serum & Zen Matcha Cashmere
Lepaar Wholistic Skincare Review
Okoko Cosmétiques Review – Red Label & Lip Serum
Kjaer Weis Eye Shadow Review & Swatches – Magnetic & Green Depth
Kjaer Weis Cream Foundation Review & Swatches
Kjaer Weis Cream Blush Review & Swatches
Ilia Beauty Multi-Stick Review & Swatches
Artis Brush Next Generation Elite Smoke Collection Review
Gone Swatching xo 