The 8 Beauty Products I Can’t Stop Using
And just like that, 2024 is coming to a close. Besides some very obvious turmoil that could happen next year, I’m fairly happy 2025 is weeks away. Instead of bogging you down with regurgitated opinions about politics and reproductive policies (lots of tone deaf conversations occurring), I’d rather talk about something lighthearted like the beauty products I’ve been reaching for this year.
It’s not the most important thing to talk about, but this year taught me the importance of not getting caught up in anything that feels divisive or leads to doom-scrolling. What’s partially been keeping me happy are less breakouts, products that don’t trigger allergic reactions, and a skincare + makeup routine full of products that feel good. It’s been helping me to focus on the present instead of the tough year I’ve had, TBH (to be honest).
My Favorite Skincare Goodies
My Favorite Beauty Goodies
Let’s Talk Skincare…
Having combination skin doesn’t mean things have to be super confusing, though they can be. After much trial and error, I’ve finally figured out what to focus on in my routine: my pores. Once I started using a cleanser and toner that got rid of any icky gunk in them, I started seeing less breakouts. Here’s the thing — Using these
products don’t indicate a total elimination of breakouts. I still experience stress and hormonal acne every month, but using everything from the Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser to Farmacy Beauty’s Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer helps keep things as calm as possible. So, what do I like about them?
Bioré’s Charcoal Cleanser cleans my face without stripping it of moisture. I always use it when I take showers because it makes my skin feel supple and smooth.
I love Farmacy Beauty’s Deep Sweep Pore Cleansing Toner because it doesn’t sting my skin after I wash it. I could have the most painful breakout, but this doesn’t burn at all.
I received a sample of the Timeless Vitamin C Serum for work and it’s the best one I’ve used. I’m admittedly not a fan of how it smells (eep!), but that’s not a deterrent. IMO (in my opinion), the natural glow it gives me while further smoothing my skin’s texture is worth the few seconds of smelling it.
Farmacy Beauty’s Oil-Free Gel Moisturizer feels like literal silk on my skin. It seals my toner and serums in place, leaving me looking like a glazed donut every time I use it.
Let’s Toast To Great Makeup!
Finding my must-have makeup products has come with a lot of trial, error, and money spent! From trips to Ulta to local beauty supply stores, I’ve tried a lot of brands in the past decade. However, nothing I’ve used in the past compares to what I faithfully use today.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Primer is the perfect alternative to Milk’s Hydro Grip Primer because it does the same thing without causing breakouts if you have combo or acne-prone skin. It has a gel-like consistency that gets tacky within seconds of applying it so foundation has something to adhere to.
I talked about why I love Danessa Myricks’ Yummy Skin Tint here so I’ll keep it short. It’s replaced my desire to wear foundation because it’s light-weight and feels like skin.
Tower 28 is one of my favorite beauty brands because it prioritizes skincare, plus founder Amy Liu knows what it’s like to have sensitive skin. In other words, this brand is created by someone who gets it! I love the Lip Treatment Balm because it’s transformed my lips to where they’re incredibly soft and less prone to dry moments. I’m not a fan of cracked lips so I always keep this handy.
The Essence Princess False Lash Effect Mascara is only $5 plus tax, but it makes me feel like I’ve spent $30 for eyelashes that pop. I haven’t figured out how to apply lashes yet (don’t judge me) so I’ve been using this when I want to frame my eyes more.
Honorable Mention: e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray
I’d love to know what products you’ve been using or discovered this year that have earned a permanent spot in your routine! Let me know in the comments!
I may get commission if you choose to purchase any mentioned products, but I only recommend things I truly love!
