1) Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner: One of the assistants at my dermatologist's office recommended this toner to me two years ago, and it has been a staple in my bathroom ever since. I had never used toner regularly before, as the occasional toner from Clean and Clear would inevitably dry out my skin. The assistant who suggested the Pore Refining Toner said that using a toner would help my skincare products be more effective, so I took a chance. I've never once had a problem with this toner drying my skin, despite the alcohol in it. It promises to reduce the appearance of pores and to refine the skin. I'm not sure how much my pores are reduced, but my skin feels so smooth after I use it (especially compared to when I run out of it for a few days). I use this after I wash my face but before any medicines and moisturizers. Simply pour some onto a cotton ball and swipe across the skin in an upwards direction.
2) Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser: Another gem discovered at my dermatologist's office. I took a photo of the travel sample since the full sized bottle is massive! I use some pretty intense acne medication, so I have to be very careful to choose a face wash that won't negatively interact with my other skincare items.
This face wash was in a basket of samples in the waiting room (which I always take advantage of), and I noticed it was soap-free which was exactly what I was looking for. In conjunction with my topical medications, a soap-based face wash would irritate my skin pretty badly. This face wash is made for sensitive skin, and promises to maintain "skin's natural moisture balance" without over-drying. While it might not be fancy, this cleanser effectively gets rid of makeup and cleans deeply while being incredibly gentle. The giant bottle also lasts so long that I only end up repurchasing maybe twice a year.
3) Rimmel Stay Matte Long Lasting Pressed Powder: This is probably no surprise, as Rimmel Stay Matte is a huge favorite for most. This finely milled powder is not only affordable, but is effective in helping makeup stay in place and keeping oil at bay. It comes in many shades, but Transparent is perfect for me to set my makeup. There's a reason why it's often sold out at Ulta, it's that popular!
As you can see, I hit pan long ago and am need of a new compact. I also want to mention that it is pretty travel friendly, I will often bring it to work with me for touch-ups.
4) Benefit They're Real! Mascara: This was my very first high-end mascara purchase. Mascara is one of those items that the drugstore lines do incredibly well, but I definitely notice a difference in the appearance of my lashes when I throw on They're Real! Instantly my lashes look volumized and lengthened. If I curl my lashes beforehand, wham! They look like doll lashes!
The spiked ball on the end of the wand is perfect for "going vertical" to push up your lashes, and also coat the bottom lash line. The wand is spiky and not too crowded with bristles, so it's easy to get to the base of the lashes. I love the formula, it's not too dry and not too wet. I may be crazy for spending $24 for this mascara when the drugstore has great options, but I just love it and it's worth it's weight.
5) Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser for Dark Circles (Brightener): Hands down, my most favorite item in my makeup bag. This concealer is easy to apply, has impressive coverage, and lasts all day. The sponge applicator brings the product up from within, and it makes it easy to quickly make two triangles under each eye. Pat the product in with your ring finger and kiss your dark circles and discoloration goodbye.
Again, I'm in desperate need of a new bottle! I have enough to get me through another couple days. This concealer makes me look well rested even on minimal sleep (as usual). It even feels refreshing after its applied. Honestly, this concealer does better than even the high-end brands I've tried (for example, It Cosmetic's Bye Bye Undereye is great, but doesn't hold a candle to this).
Any of my Top 5 items the same as yours? What product will you always repurchase? Comment below!
Any of my Top 5 items the same as yours? What product will you always repurchase? Comment below!
I love the Rimmel powder. Another favourite of mine is Maybelline Lash Sensational mascara.
ReplyDeleteTori x
www.30plusandbeautiful.com
Have you seen they have a new version of the Lash Sensational mascara in a black tube?
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The stay matte powder is one of my firm favourites too, I always repurchase it!!
ReplyDeleteToni x
www.clarkecouture.co.uk
Lol I can't live without it!
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Fab post, and some great picks! I really love the They’re Real Mascara and this really does give volumised and lengthened lashes :)
ReplyDeleteCharlee XO | CharmedCharlee
I wonder how much more volume and length we can get out of it with the new primer that just came out!
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I started using the Benefit mascara recently and its one of the best I've tried! You only need a small amount to really make your lashes look lovely and I'm so happy about that because I find that most mascaras require to use quite a lot of product before your lashes look like they've actually been coated, definitely going to be one of my repurchases too x
ReplyDeleteMollie Victoria Beauty | Blog
It's really worth the money, right?!
DeleteThanks for reading!