April 2020

We’re big fans of the YouTube Beauty Community here at The Everygirl. We’re constantly talking about our favorite creators, their best looks, and buying pretty much everything they recommend. The YouTube beauty world is honestly what we have to thank for some of the biggest trends in beauty—we’d never be baking our undereyes or curling our hair with straighteners or using men’s post-shave balm as a primer if it weren’t for the beauty YouTubers who taught us how. 

Alongside the various techniques YouTube has taught us, the phenomenon of the ever-so-popular “empties video” has truly taken over our subscription feeds. Every beauty YouTuber has made an empties video (if not five), and everyone who even knows just a glimpse of beauty YouTube has seen one. The concept is simple: show everyone what’s in your trash and talk about if you loved it, if you’ll buy it again, and how long it took you to use up. 

So being the beauty-lovers we are at TEG HQ, we decided to create our own empties series. Every month, all of our editors will share a few of our own empties—from skin, hair, and makeup products to candles and vitamins and home items—and give our unfiltered review on each of the products. Some of them we’ll love and need to repurchase ASAP … and some we’ll celebrate finally finishing them up. If you’ve ever wondered what our absolute favorites (and not-so-favorites) are, this is the right place to be. It’s finally time for our trash cans to shine!

 

Redken

Color Extend Blondage Color Depositing Purple Shampoo

To be totally fair, my mom and I went through this together, but I’m sharing regardless. I’ve went through two of these purple shampoos at this point, and it remains one of my favorites I’ve ever tried (and I’ve tried a few—I went through a platinum phase a few years ago, and my parents’ house has well water which is basically a blonde’s enemy). If you’re someone who uses a purple shampoo for most of your washes, pick this up ASAP because it’s definitely the most moisturizing I’ve ever tried. However, my favorite is this one from Kristin Ess; it’s a little drying, but it tones your hair like crazy. But recently, I’ve been using a yellow shampoo for blondes because I’ve grown to love a warm, golden tone instead. As you can tell, my shower is filled-to-the-brim with random, half-full shampoos.

 

Caudalie

Beauty Elixir

I was first introduced to Caudalie when I was studying in Paris a few years ago, and have been hooked ever since (and not just because using their products makes me feel Parisian). This Beauty Elixir not only sounds fancy, but the results measure up to the cult-following. It's a toning mist that tightens pores, sets makeup, and provides an instant shot of radiance. Thanks to ingredients like rosemary (to tone) and organic rose oil (to boost glow), it's clean, so I know it's 100 percent good for my skin. I use it as a toner before serum, and a primer spray before dabbing on foundation (*sigh* remember the days when we put on makeup?), so I go through these quickly. It's time to order another, ASAP!

 

Nars

Radiant Creamy Concealer

I've been scraping the sides of this to get every last drop of product out for about a month now, but have finally had to throw in the towel and order a new one. This concealer is a cult favorite for a reason. It's super natural looking while still giving the perfect amount of coverage, and never creases or looks dry (even on my crazy-dry skin). I've been loving putting a little of this under my eyes and on blemishes when I work from home to put a little put-together and awake. I love that I can wear it on its own without it ever looking like I'm obviously wearing concealer. This was an obvious re-purchase for me—I'll never be without it.

Fenty

Full Frontal Mascara

I'll admit it: when I first tried this mascara, I hated it. Our beauty guru Beth loved it and sang its praises constantly, and I couldn't figure out why. Then I picked it up one day to give it a second try, and have been absolutely obsessed since (what changed? Who knows!). It is the perfect mascara to get that fluffy, fanned-out lash look without ever veering toward a scary spider-legs, Madison-Prewitt-on-The-Bachelor scenario (sorry Madi, I had to). The #1 thing I look for in a mascara is volume, and this delivers while looking natural and almost like I'm wearing falsies. It's amazing. I have a few more mascaras I need to finish up, but I plan on repurchasing this once I'm leaving my home again.

 

Acnefree

Acne Free Terminator 10 Acne Spot Treatment

When I first started staying home I thought that my skin would be glowing and feel fresh from wearing less makeup. Instead, I had a few days where my skin was an absolute mess! I don't know if it was from the stress or the transition, or both, but I'm so glad I had this on hand to clear up my face and give me one less thing to worry about. It works seemingly overnight and a great product to keep on hand.

 

Oribe

Run-Through Detangling Primer

I have very long, color-treated, thin hair, which means that I am prone to horrific knots. This issue has been something I have dealt with since a child and this is the ONLY product that makes my hair manageable when brushing without ripping and ruining it. The smell is amazing and I use 4-5 sprays after every shower and then brush out with a paddle brush. I bring this with me to the beach or pool as well to spray on wet hair to keep the tangles at bay. I have seen significant improvement over the past few years in the health of my hair and reduction of split ends since using this product.

Diptyque

Baies Room Spray

This room spray is one of those splurge purchases that I always re-buy and that just brings me joy. It isn’t cheap at $62 a bottle, but each one lasts me around 6-9 months and makes my bedroom and bathroom smell amazing. I use this in place of a candle as lasts much longer and is less expensive per use.

Amika

Bust Your Brass Cool Blonde Shampoo

As a lifelong blonde who enhances her color with balayage, I have spent many hours in my colorists chair maintaining the right tone. My hair is pretty porous, and I go from bright to brassy really quickly. My colorist who specializes in balayage commented immediately after I began using this that the improvement in color tone between appointments (12-16 weeks) was remarkably improved. She even began using the product and suggests it now to her clients. It is gentle enough to use daily and isn’t harsh. I give this shampoo and conditioner 5/5 stars.

Cremo

Concentrated Shave Cream

I have always had very sensitive skin and am prone to really painful and red razor burn every time I shave. This is the first shaving cream that I have found that doesn’t aggravate it worse and actually helps to minimize redness and irritation. A little goes a long way, and I find a single bottle lasts a long time.

 

MOROCCANOIL

Perfect Defense Heat Protectant

I bought this heat protectant during one of my in-person Sephora hauls of 2019 (@Sephora, I miss you terribly), and it’s lasted me almost seven months. I went an embarrassingly long time without using any type of heat protectant on my hair despite blow-drying my mane three times a week and styling it at least four, but 2020 Ashley is much more responsible and has learned her lesson. Not only is this product lightweight, color-safe, and hydrating, but it smells amazing, which is probably more important to me than any other factor combined. I was highly saddened to learn that I ran out last week and will be rebuying STAT.

The post April Empties: Honest Thoughts on The Products Our Team Finished This Month appeared first on The Everygirl.

Having all of this time on my hands has encouraged me to delve into new hobbies. I started bullet journaling—complete with fancy pens and highlighters. I started doing my own manicures. I took a leadership class on Skillshare. And I’ve gotten neck-deep in skincare.

Now, listen: I know I say the same “I’m lazy about skincare” line in every story like this, and it’s true. But I’ve always enjoyed it, nonetheless. I like knowing about what can make our skin tick, from what products and ingredients to use for different skin concerns to what’s trending in dermatologist offices, Sephora, and more. I might be more of a makeup girl, but any and all beauty products give me the buzz of excitement most people can only dream of. All of this to say, my skincare habits have definitely changed within the last few months, not only to keep up with stress acne, but as self-care in the morning and at the end of a long day.

While making my dream skincare routine (which yes, I did put in my previously-stated bullet journal) a few months ago, I wanted to add a higher-potency vitamin C product to my morning routine. I had been using one from Dr. Loretta to ease into it, but I was ready to try something that would tackle my hyperpigmentation and dullness with a little more vigor. Maelove’s hero product, The Glow Maker Serum, stood out to me immediately.

If you’ve lusted after some of the most popular vitamin C serums (Skinceuticals C E Ferulic, Drunk Elephant C-Firma, Ole Henrikson Truth Serum, and more to name), they all have a few things in common: a high vitamin C content with the addition of vitamin E and Ferulic Acid. Oh, and they’re all expensive AF. Maelove’s formula? It has all of those buzzy ingredients with a price tag under $30. 

 

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"Currently in love with @maeloveskincare vitamin C serum. Perfect for AM, layer it with tons of sunscreen.⁠" – @bonniearif⁠ has the right idea! ☀ Glow Maker + SPF is the best morning combo to protect your skin against environmental damage. #lovemaelove #peoplewillstare⁠ .⁠ .⁠ .⁠ .⁠ .⁠ .⁠ #skincareproducts #skincareblogger #toxinfreebeauty #indiebeauty #crueltyfreebeauty #crueltyfreecosmetics #skingoals #beautifulskin #freshface #freshfaced #naturalserum #crueltyfreeskincare #freshskin #veganbeauty #veganbeautyproducts #getglowing #greenbeautyblogger #greenbeautyproducts #facialserum #faceserum #glowingskincare #nontoxicbeauty #cleanbeauty #naturalskincareproducts #nontoxicskincare #naturalbeautyproducts #safebeauty #vitamincserum⁣⁠

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I’ve been using it pretty much daily (laziness doesn’t just go away overnight, people) for two months now, and I see all the hype and more. There’s a reason this product goes in and out of stock constantly: it works. 

Vitamin C, E, and Ferulic Acid are a common pair in skincare—but why? In a 2005 study from Duke University Medical Center, ferulic acid paired with 15 percent L-ascorbic acid (AKA vitamin C) and 1 percent alpha-tocopherol (a type of vitamin E) “improved chemical stability and doubled photoprotection.” Other studies, such as one from Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology in 2007, suggest that vitamin C and E are “synergistic,” meaning they work best when put together. Basically, all of this science-jargon to say: there’s weight in using these ingredients together, and the Maelove serum combines it all right there for you. 

My skin has broken out on and off since I started using it (thanks, Retin-A!), but my scars are fading much faster than usual. My skin also feels smoother and just overall clearer—I might have a few active zits, but my face has clarity and looks brighter. My morning skincare routine is pretty bare-bones, but I still feel like my skin is prepped and ready for makeup or to just look good on its own. 

After rinsing my face with water (I don’t cleanse in the morning because it’s a bit irritating), I pat Glow Maker on my skin with my fingertips. It has a really thin, liquid consistency that goes on easily. It does make my face quite tacky, but once I apply moisturizer, that goes away. I immediately wash my hands because the vitamin C stains your palms almost like a self-tanner would. Then, I go over it with a moisturizer and sunscreen, and I’m good for the day!

 

How it looks on the skin with a little moisturizer—this product has hyaluronic acid as well, so it really plumps the skin and makes it look VERY glowy (hence, Glow Maker). 

 

It’s rare for me to like every single thing about a product (I’m a little critical, what can I say), but I really have no complaints with this serum. I’ve been pining after the Skinceuticals since my dermatologist recommended it, but the $166 price tag just isn’t in my budget. This Maelove serum has a really similar ingredient list for $27.95. With over 6,300 reviews (most of them five stars!), many say it works as well if not better than the one over five times the price. With free shipping and returns, I mean, you really can’t go wrong. 

The post I’m Focusing on Skincare Right Now—This is My Current Favorite Product appeared first on The Everygirl.

Here at the Everygirl, it’s no secret we love our beauty products and will be on top of all the new trends and giving it a try. A new mascara? We’re on it. New beauty mask? We’re on it. New hair tool? We’re on it. You get the picture.

You want to know another thing we love? A great deal! The Spring Savings Event at Sephora is here, and it’s the highlight of our beauty-loving week. How can you turn down a deal like this?! We can’t stop, and we won’t stop, and we are stocking up on everything and more. 

 

Now through April 27th, Sephora is offering an exclusive discount on purchases — 20% off for Rouge Members, 15% off for VIB Members, and 10% off for Insiders with code SPRINGSAVE at checkout!

 

Not an insider? Not a problem. You can sign up at any time! It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on the new products you’ve been dying to pick up. When you’re an insider, not only do you receive exclusive discounts and promotions, but you also get perks like free beauty classes and in-store services. You also get access to the Beauty Insider Rewards Bazaar, where you can exchange your points for one-of-a-kind experiences, services, and samples.

Whether you’re looking to revamp your night routine with some new products or you’re finally ready to splurge on a new foundation, it’s the perfect time to treat yourself. These are the products in our editors carts:

Armani Beauty

Power Fabric Concealer

After watching dozens of makeup reviews that swore this was the best concealer on the planet, I picked it up. I am a devoted member of the Luminous Silk fan club (which I might actually start one day—I mean, what else do I have to do), so I had a strong feeling I’d love this too. It’s a natural finish that completely sets down without any powder, and the coverage is fantastic. It won’t hide your deepest, darkest secrets, but it’s sure to make you look like you went to bed at 9pm and absolutely did not have a glass of wine before bed.

A thing to note: I find that the Power Fabric shades are cooler and a little lighter than the Luminous Silk shades. Check swatches and read the shade reviews, and you should be good to go! With concealer, I generally prefer to match the tone and go lighter if I’m unsure.

Hourglass

Veil Setting Spray

I’ve raved about multiple Hourglass products in my time at TEG, so you’ll know I freaked out a little when I saw that they were releasing a setting spray a few weeks ago. It boasts an ultra-fine mist (which from the videos I’ve watched on the product, it seems comparable to an aerosol spray without the environmental danger) that hydrates while setting your makeup for 24 hours with a “visibly radiant, blurred finish.” Excuse me, what? How dare Hourglass make my dream setting spray and launch it during the Sephora Spring Event. You know I added it to my cart ASAP.

Fenty Beauty

Cheeks Out Freestyle Cream Blush

Y’all, I waited an entire month from the time Rihanna dropped the pics on Instagram to when these launched at Sephora. I am not joking when I say I ordered mine at exactly 12:36am when they became available and paid extra to get it to me immediately (ya know, so I could know if I should pick up more shades in my inevitable second Beauty Event order). These are the perfect summer blush, with tones ranging from bright summery corals, pinks, and reds to neutral peachy, brown shades as well. Whether I’ll be hitting the beach this summer or Zoom-ing my BFFs from my parents backyard, I’m about to look bomb doing it with these blushes in tow.

Sunday Riley

C.E.O Glow Vitamin C + Turmeric Face Oil

I've never been a huge fan of facial oils since I already have pretty oily skin (why pay for something I already make in abundance?), but I've recently found a few I would absolutely bathe in, including this one. I use it in the mornings (just a few drops, it goes a looong way), and it adds the perfect amount of glowy health to my skin without making me feel over-oiled by the middle of the day. The full size jar lasts me forever and feels so luxe going on that I've become absolutely dependent. I've rebought twice, and it's now a permanent staple in my routine.

Maison Margiela

'REPLICA' Springtime In A Park

I adore everything about the Replica line of scents (Sailing Day and Jazz Club are my current go-tos), and I’ve never tried one I haven’t loved. Lately, I’ve been looking for a floral scent that doesn’t veer into granny territory. Something fresh without too much papery rose or bubblegum sweet notes. I love that this one has pear and lilies with a little bit of musk. Feels fresh and springy without slapping you in the face with florals.

BITE BEAUTY

Changemaker Supercharged Micellar Foundation

A few months ago, our beauty guru Beth recommended this foundation to me on account of the fact that it looked more like skin than anything she’d ever tried before. I picked it up one day spontaneously, and it’s been my holy grail ever since. It truly does just look like your skin—it doesn’t sit on top of it or look cakey or dry or artificial in any way. I have super dry, sensitive skin, and it hasn’t irritated it at all (win) and never enhances any dryness I have (double win). I can’t think of one bad thing to say about this foundation.

Olaplex

Olaplex Hair Perfector No. 3

I go through Olaplex No. 3 like water. It is my hair care holy grail, and the only reason that my blonde hair that is constantly being bleached is healthy whatsoever. It’s hyped for a reason: it actually repairs damage to your hair, rather than just masking it. I leave this on my hair for a few hours twice a week, and my hair has never been healthier in my life—even though it’s also never been lighter. I usually order a couple of bottles at a time, but recently realized that Sephora has a double-sized bottle of this, and I couldn’t add-to-cart quick enough. If you’ve been debating picking up Olaplex, this is your sign.

Shani Darden Skin Care

Retinol Reform

I'm taking advantage of this time at home to indulge in all the beauty treatments that normally cause a period of downtime. I've been putting off starting retinol for the last year because the first few weeks can lead to your skin purging (hello pimples) and peeling. If you also feel like there's never a "right time" to disrupt your routine, let me remind you that NOW IS THE TIME.

I just started Shani Darden's Retinol Reform after hearing countless rave reviews of this celebrity esthetician's treatments. And while I sadly can't jump in her client chair like Shay Mitchell, I'm happy to have a little piece of her genius at home with me.

Summer Fridays

Super Amino Gel Cleanser

My beauty recommendations have basically turned into a love letter for Summer Fridays. Do I need a new cleanser? No. Do I need to try it immediately because I have an obsession for this brand? Yes, absolutely.

OLEHENRIKSEN

Banana Bright Eye Crème

I've never been great at remembering to use eye cream. Skincare confession: mine actually ran out a few months ago, and I just never replaced it. OOPS.

But turning 30 and all those damn memes about "if you had Mudd jeans, you should be using an eye cream" have shamed me into getting back on track. This is a cult-favorite eye cream that I am excited to have in my arsenal.

DPHUE

Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse

I’ve never been a “haircare person.” I’ve always just done the bare minimum to make my hair look socially acceptable (like the usual washing and conditioning and throwing it in a ponytail most days). For generations, the women in my family have had thin, lackluster hair, so I always just figured inevitable bad hair days were genetic, and I had accepted that (don’t worry, there’s a happy ending to this sad story!). But I’ve been using the ACV Rinse in place of shampoo for a few months, and I swear my hair has traded places with Gisele Bundchen’s (OK, so it’s not that good, but my hair has never looked better). The genius formula uses natural ingredients like lavender extract to cleanse, aloe to soothe, and apple cider vinegar to seal the cuticle. I wasn’t doomed for genetic bad hair days; I was simply using the wrong shampoo. While the Sephora event is going on, I’m stocking up on this item (and buying one for every woman in my family).

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare

Alpha Beta® Extra Strength Daily Peel

I’m not exaggerating when I say that for years, the Dr. Dennis Gross Peel Pads have been my most pined after skincare item. I’ve heard about the insane results so often that I’m quite convinced these peel pads will change my life (well, maybe just my skin, but you get the point). They’re a splurge, which is why I’ve been waiting until a major discount like this to take the plunge (this product also appeared on my Christmas Wishlist for the past three years, but Santa was probably waiting for the Sephora Event too). Once I try them, I know I’m going to be hooked, so I’m planning on buying a few during the event (the more you spend, the more you save, right!?).

First Aid Beauty

Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner

A few months ago, I started a new medication that tends to majorly dry out skin, so I set out to create a gentle yet highly moisturizing routine to combat the dryness. After over three months of consistently using this 1-2 times every single day, I can honestly say that it’s my favorite toner I’ve ever used—it’s light and breathable, but still HIGHLY moisturizing. It cools my redness and irritation and gives a nice light glow, under makeup or alone. I absolutely love this toner, and you will too if you suffer from any sort of dryness.

Origins

Intensive Overnight Hydrating Mask

Like I said, I’m currently taking a highly-dehydrating medication—so my current routine is chock-full of moisturizing products. I picked up this mask, assuming I’d use it once every week or so, but once I tried it once, I knew I’d be using it as much as humanly possible. You layer it on right before bed as a treatment, then sleep with it on overnight. I kid you not, I wake up with the most plump, dewy skin I’ve ever had—it not only restores my skin to a normal level of hydration, but actually improves its texture all day long. I love it SO much.

 

 

 

Too Faced

Better Than Sex Mascara

This best-selling mascara will have your lashes looking darker, longer, thicker, and multiplied.

Benefit Cosmetics

Hoola Matte Bronzer

The bronzer makeup artists refer to as universally flattering—what more could you need?

GRANDELASH

Lash-Enhancing Serum

A revolutionary lash-enhancing serum that promotes longer, thicker-looking eyelashes.

Isle of Paradise

Self Tanning Drops

Add a few drops to your daily moisturizer for an even, natural glow.

Herbivore

Coconut Milk Bath Soak

A luxurious and indulgent bath soak with skin-softening organic coconut milk as its base, that is perfect for hydrating and softening skin.

Youth to The People

Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser

A daily green juice cleanse for your face with cold-pressed antioxidants to remove makeup and prevent build-up in pores, while keeping skin’s pH balanced.

Charlotte Tilbury

Hollywood Flawless Filter

The secret to achieving flawless, dewy skin. Layer it under foundation, or use it as a highlighter.

Laneige

Lip Sleeping Mask

This best-selling lip mask is the perfect addition to your night routine—and morning routine too!

Drunk Elephant

C-Firma Day Serum

A daily staple in our editors' skincare routines. Stock up and enjoy the powerful benefits.

Sol de Janeiro

Brazilian Bum Bum Cream

This body cream will nourish your skin without leaving you feeling greasy or slick. It is perfect for warm weather!

Shhhowercap

Shower Cap

A modern reinvention of the shower cap made to help you extend your days between washes.

Living Proof

Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo

A premium dry shampoo that cleans hair while eliminating oil, sweat, and odor.

Invisibobble

Invisibobble Trio

Slim hair ties that won't leave a crease in your hair—no matter how long you leave them in.

Herbivore

Jade Facial Roller

Pop it in the freezer, and you'll quickly find out why this is our favorite affordable beauty tool.

 

Like Donna said, “treat yo’self!”—these discounts don’t come along often.

Sunday Riley

Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment

An all-in-one night serum powered by lactic acid that clarifies, smooths, and retexturizes the appearance of skin.

Drunk Elephant

T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial

The product we will never stop raving about! You'll love how much it immediately improves your skin.

Living Proof

Shampoo & Conditioner Value Set

A supersized set of our favorite shampoo and conditioner. You cannot beat this deal!

Nuface

Trinity Facial Toning Device

This facial toning device is adored by celebrities and for good reason. It helps improve your natural contour and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkless.

Biossance

Squalane Eye Cream

Clean beauty lovers agree: Biossance is setting the standard for clean beauty. Try their eye cream, and you'll be hooked on this brand forever.

T3

Trio Interchangeable Styling Wand Set

Save space in your bathroom with this interchangeable set. The ceramic material maintains even heat and protects your hair while you style.

 

 

This post was in partnership with Sephora, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board.

 

 

The post Editors’ Picks: What We’re Buying at Sephora’s Spring Savings Event appeared first on The Everygirl.

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