博客

For me, the best kind of beauty look is the “no makeup” makeup—it’s fresh, effortless, and takes just a few minutes. It’s perfect for those days when you want to feel polished but not overdone. I love the natural, undone look that feels authentic and relaxed. While there’s definitely a time for a bold eye or a dramatic lip, I believe that embracing your natural self can be just as stunning. One of the best decisions I’ve made recently is to stop wearing eye makeup, especially mascara—it’s so liberating! No more struggling to remove stubborn mascara at the end of the day.

If you’re looking for simple yet effective products to help you achieve that laid-back beauty look, here are a few of my must-haves:

1. Maybelline Dream Fresh BB Cream – This BB cream is a game-changer. It’s light, easy to apply, and gives a fresh, flawless finish at an unbelievably affordable price.
2. Dior Addict Lip Glow – This lip balm is magic! It enhances your natural lip color, leaving you with a soft, subtle tint that looks like your lips but better.
3. Topshop Cream Blush in Prime Time – This cream blush is perfect for a natural flush. It blends beautifully into the skin, giving a fresh, youthful glow without any heavy buildup.
4. Make Up For Ever Diamond Powder in White Gold 2 – A touch of this shimmering powder in the inner corners of your eyes and on your cupid’s bow adds a radiant highlight that brightens up your face without the need for heavy eye makeup.
5. Sachajuan Ocean Mist – For that effortlessly tousled, textured hair, I love this product. My trick is to add a few loose curls with a clampless curling iron, then brush them out and scrunch in some of this ocean mist. The result? A chic, messy, high-fashion vibe.
6. Anastasia Tinted Brow Gel – Perfect for fuller, defined brows without the need for pencil or powder. This gel tames and adds color to brows, making them look natural and polished.
7. Kevin Murphy Motion Lotion – This is my secret weapon for curly hair. It works wonders on fine, straight hair like mine, helping to define curls and give them movement. It’s perfect for giving life to second-day hair!

Recently, I came across an updated take on the no-makeup makeup look that I adore. I saw a picture of the stunning Fillipa Berg on Free People’s blog and was captivated by the gold highlighter under her eyes. It’s a beautiful, subtle alternative to the usual eyeliner for making your eyes pop. I think the By Terry Cream Eyeshadow in Beyond Gold would achieve this gorgeous look perfectly.

I’ve been wanting to share my updated beauty routine for a while now, and I finally get the chance to do so! As a beauty enthusiast, I tend to have a lot to say, so fair warning—this post may be on the longer side. I’ve used many products that have become staples in my routine, and while not everything I use is pictured (some of my favorite makeup products are too well-loved to photograph), I’ll link to everything I mention. Stay tuned for my nighttime routine in a future post!

Skincare: Every morning, I start by cleansing my face with a Fresh Soy Cleanser, using a textured washcloth to gently scrub my skin. Next, I apply the Dear By Tone Up Booskin toner with a cotton pad, followed by a few drops of Hylamide Glow Serum, which gives my skin a subtle, natural glow. During the winter, when I tend to look a bit pale, this serum helps bring some life back to my complexion. If I have a bit more time, I’ll use a Korean sheet mask for added hydration before moving on to makeup.

Before applying makeup, I make sure to saturate my skin with moisture. Right now, I’m loving Dr. Jart’s Cermadin cream. It acts as a perfect base for makeup and provides protection during chilly shoots. For sun protection, I’ve been using MISSHA’s waterproof sun milk for years—it’s lightweight and non-greasy, which I love. If I have any breakouts, I apply an acne serum to speed up healing.

Primer: For my makeup base, I always start with Bare Minerals Skin Revver-Upper, which contains glycolic and salicylic acid to plump up the skin instantly. While it has a unique scent, it’s definitely worth it! If I know I’ll be shooting for a long time or facing unpredictable weather, I’ll also apply Hourglass’s Mineral Veil Primer. It’s amazing at making makeup waterproof, which means it will stay intact no matter what the day throws at me.

Foundation: I switch between a few foundations depending on the day, but here are my current favorites. I’m particularly loving CoverFX’s Custom Cover Drops, which is a concentrated foundation serum that you mix with skincare products. As a skincare enthusiast, this product is a dream! I mix it with a drop of honey skin oil and apply it using a stippling brush, and the result is a beautiful, dewy complexion.

Another staple is Bare Minerals Broad Spectrum Foundation in Fair. I’ve been using Bare Minerals since I was 13, and I’m still obsessed! It gives a flawless finish and photographs beautifully without ever looking cakey. If I’m dealing with a breakout, this is my go-to foundation.

Concealer, Bronzer, and Highlighter: Recently, I discovered Benefit’s Erase Paste, which has become my favorite under-eye concealer. Its salmon hue helps to correct dark circles, and its creamy texture means a little goes a long way.

When it comes to achieving glowing skin, I can’t recommend BECCA Cosmetics’ Shimmering Skin Perfector Poured enough. I use the shade Moonstone, and it adds an incredible glow that I love to layer under my foundation. For bronzing, I contour my temples and cheek hollows with Becca’s Lowlight/Highlight palette, which gives a subtle and natural look—even on pale skin like mine.

Eyes and Brows: I’m all about cream eyeshadows, and ever since I tried Charlotte Tilbury’s Eyes to Mesmerize, I’ve been hooked. I use the shades Jean and Marie Antoinette as bases almost every day. Charlotte Tilbury’s Vintage Vamp palette, with its rose-hued smokey shades, is another favorite of mine.

Marc Jacobs’ Velvet Noir mascara is my go-to for lashes right now. One coat gives me the perfect volume and length, and it’s intensely black, which I love. While I don’t usually wear false eyelashes, I always keep a few pairs in my makeup bag. The cheap ones from Liftly are surprisingly great!

For my brows, I’ve finally found the perfect product: Dior’s Brow Styler Ultra Fine Precision Pencil. This pencil is so fine, it mimics real brow hairs with every stroke, and it’s become my absolute favorite brow product.

Lips and Cheeks: I’m quite selective about my lipsticks, but Chanel’s Rouge Coco in 418 Misia is one I always reach for. It’s one of those shades that flatters everyone, and I apply it with my fingers for a more natural, sheer stain. I also recently picked up LadyKin’s One Touch Bling Glow Lipstick in Fall Rose, and I’m obsessed with the color and formula—plus, it’s only six dollars!

When it comes to blush, I love mixing several shades to create a customized look. The Narsissist Cheek Studio is perfect for this, as the colors are stunning. I’m also a huge fan of Becca’s Beach Tint Shimmer Souffle in Guava, which provides a natural flush and works as a skin luminizer.

Recent Additions: I’ve recently added a few new products to my daytime skincare routine, and I’m excited to continue testing them out and sharing my thoughts soon!

Taking care of my skin has never been more crucial than it is now. It’s remarkable how much our bodies can change over time, and for me, my skin has become more challenging to manage as I’ve aged. Looking back, I regret not fully appreciating the flawless skin I had in my younger years. Unfortunately, I’m one of those people cursed with the adult acne gene, and it has been a real struggle to get it under control. Recently, my skin has undergone some intense treatments and medications that left it dry and flaky. While these efforts were necessary to fight acne, my skin now desperately needs some tender loving care.

When SK-II reached out to me to try their iconic Facial Treatment Essence, I was beyond excited. I had heard glowing reviews from makeup artists and friends, so I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. After using it for a month, the results are nothing short of impressive. My skin no longer feels tight or dry, and I can actually see a healthy glow that I hadn’t seen in months. It’s as if my skin is starting to return to its former self. One of the most noticeable improvements has been the fading of acne scars and sunspots, something I attribute to the Facial Treatment Essence. This product has played a significant role in restoring my confidence after dealing with problematic skin for so long.

As I prepare for our wedding day, I really wanted to feel good about the way I look, and this product has been a game-changer. Feeling my best on such an important day is crucial to me, and thanks to the Facial Treatment Essence, I’m starting to see a light return to my complexion that had been missing for months. Even my dermatologist noticed the change and asked what I’ve been using at home. The difference is visible in every photo we take for this blog.

If you’ve never used an essence before, you might be wondering how to fit it into your skincare routine. I personally use the Facial Treatment Essence right after cleansing and patting my face dry. I splash a few drops of the essence onto my palms or a cotton pad and gently press it into my face and neck. At first, it might seem surprising because the essence feels almost like water, but it absorbs quickly into the skin, and you’ll feel the difference almost immediately. If you’re looking for a miracle product to enhance your skincare regimen, I highly recommend giving this essence a try. It’s a cult favorite for a reason, and it absolutely lives up to the reputation. I’m definitely going to keep using it as I prepare my skin for the big day!

Maintaining red hair is no easy feat, and I know this from firsthand experience. After a brief break from my signature red locks, I’ve returned to my vibrant color, and I’m reminded of just how much care it requires to keep it looking fresh. Whether you’re a seasoned redhead or a newcomer to the color, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about preserving red hair and keeping it as stunning as the day you first dyed it.

Red is notorious for being a challenging color to maintain. The reason? Red dye molecules are larger than those of other colors, which means they fade more quickly and rinse out with every wash. One of the first tips you’ll hear about keeping red hair vibrant is to wash your hair with cold water. While it’s not the most enjoyable practice, especially in colder months, it makes a noticeable difference in preserving your color. You don’t need to use freezing cold water—just cooler than body temperature will do the trick.

As for hair care products, I swear by New Wash from Hairstory. This detergent-free cleansing balm is gentle on colored hair, and I’ve found that it helps my scalp stay healthy while providing a lot of volume and longer-lasting cleanliness between washes. I don’t use a conditioner since the New Wash provides enough conditioning on its own, and I’ve been using it for almost a year now with excellent results.

In addition to washing less frequently, try to extend the time between washes. Not only does this benefit your hair’s overall health, but it helps keep your color intact for longer. I usually wash my hair about two to three times a week and rely heavily on dry shampoo in between. Bumble and Bumble’s Pret-a-Powder is my go-to for adding volume and texture, and it’s a lifesaver on non-wash days.

When it comes to styling, try to avoid using too much heat, especially from a blow dryer. I prefer to use a Tangle Teezer on my wet hair and let it air dry while I sleep. For styling, I’ve been loving hot rollers lately. They’re much gentler on the hair than a curling wand, and they work wonders on day-old hair. I use Remington hot rollers, which give me the perfect bouncy curls that soften beautifully over time.

Another essential tip is protecting your hair from the sun and chlorine. Prolonged sun exposure can cause red hair to fade, so I always make sure to wear a hat or apply a UV protectant spray before heading outdoors. And when it comes to swimming, never enter a chlorinated pool without covering your hair. Chlorine can wreak havoc on red hair, leaving it dry, damaged, and discolored.

Now, here’s my secret for keeping my red hair vibrant: tinted conditioners. For the past few months, I’ve been using Overtones Vibrant Red and Vibrant Orange conditioners. I mix the two together in the shower to give my hair a color boost and maintain its vibrancy between color appointments. I apply the mixture to my scalp and ends and leave it on for 2-3 minutes before rinsing it out. In the past, I’ve also used Pravana Chromasilk Vivids mixed with my conditioner for a similar effect. There are also other brands like Davines that offer colored conditioners designed specifically for redheads, which I’ve used before with great results.

The more you dye your hair red, the easier it is to maintain the color over time. When I had been a redhead for eight years, the color would stick around much longer, but after taking a break from red, I’ve noticed it fades much more quickly. To keep my roots in check, I get them done every five to six weeks (I have a lot of grey hair), and every two months, I get permanent color on my ends. In between salon visits, I get color glosses to help preserve the hue.

Maintaining red hair may seem like a lot of work, but with the right techniques and products, it’s definitely manageable. I hope these tips will help all the new redheads out there maintain their gorgeous, fiery locks!

Happy Friday! I hope you’re looking forward to a fun weekend. Today, I’m excited to share an easy, glowing makeup look that will have you looking fresh, awake, and radiant in no time. This is one of my go-to looks when I’m short on time or haven’t had the best night’s sleep (which, let’s be honest, happens often). The combination of flushed cheeks, shimmering eyes, and rosy lips brings a natural brightness to the face and is perfect for the weekend. Plus, I’ll be sharing some of my all-time favorite products along the way!

Step 1: Prep and Base

First, I always start with good skincare to ensure a smooth base. I love using Tata Harper’s Illuminating Moisturizer to hydrate and prep my skin. After moisturizing, I applied Urban Decay’s Naked Skin Concealer in Fair Neutral under my eyes, around my nostrils, and on my chin and forehead. This concealer provides great coverage where needed, and I like to apply it in these specific areas for a brightened look.

For foundation, I used Chanel’s Vitalumiere Aqua, applied lightly with a brush. I misted my It Cosmetics Fully Flawless Blush Brush with some rosewater spray for an airbrush effect. This brush is technically meant for blush, but I find the angle is perfect for applying foundation evenly and getting into the contours of my face. I then blended everything out with a damp Beauty Blender for a seamless, natural finish. To lock everything in place, I set my makeup with Givenchy’s Prisme Visage Powder in Popeline Rose—it’s been my favorite for years, as it gives a soft, creamy finish without looking too matte.

Step 2: Eyes

For a simple, iridescent look on the eyes, I applied Charlotte Tilbury’s Eyes to Mesmerize in the shade Marie Antoinette. This cream eyeshadow is perfect for an easy, everyday look and can also be layered with other shadows. I used my fingers and a MAC #217 brush to apply the shadow all over the lid, slightly winging it out at the outer corners to elongate the eyes. To add more depth, I used NARS’s Shadow Hill from the Wanted palette to define the crease and lower lash line.

For the inner corners of my eyes, I wanted something extra shimmery, so I used Makeup Forever’s Starlit Liquid in Gold Champagne, followed by NARS’s Delirium shade from the Wanted palette. The liquid shimmer is stunning on its own, but it also helps other shadows really pop. To define the upper lashes without using eyeliner, I lightly applied NYX’s gel eyeliner in dark brown along the lash line, then smudged it with a brush for a softer look.

Step 3: Lashes and Highlight

After curling my lashes, I applied Dior’s Diorshow Mascara Primer and two coats of Maybelline’s Pumped Up Colossal Volume Mascara. To brighten my eyes even more, I lined my inner waterline with white eyeliner from NYX. For a bold inner corner highlight, I used the Urban Decay x Kristen Leanne palette’s highlight, which is perfect for brightening up the eyes.

Step 4: Cheeks and Lips

For a fresh flush of color, I applied NARS’s Liquid Blush in Luster, which has become a recent obsession of mine. I gently tapped the blush into my skin with my palms for a natural, seamless blend. When it comes to lips, I prefer a low-maintenance stain, so I reached for Etude House’s Dear Darling Water Gel Tint in Chestnut Red for a pop of color that’s easy to wear throughout the day.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

To complete the look, I dusted Hourglass Cosmetics Ambient Lighting Powder in Diffused Light all over my face for a soft, glowing finish. As a final touch, I used my eyebrow pencil to dot a few freckles across my nose and tapped them in with my fingers for a more natural, sun-kissed look. Adding freckles after makeup really brings the face to life and gives it a youthful, fresh feel.

And that’s it! This glowy, natural makeup look is perfect for the weekend, whether you’re heading out with friends or just want to look effortlessly put together. Enjoy the weekend, and I hope you find this tutorial helpful!

Happy Friday! I wanted to share an update on my nighttime skincare routine, as it has evolved quite a bit over the past few months. I’ve been getting questions about some of the products I’ve been using, so I thought it would be helpful to break it all down. For context, I have naturally oily skin that’s prone to hormonal cystic acne, thanks to PCOS and endometriosis. After struggling with acne that wouldn’t respond to topical treatments, I did five months of Accutane last year. While Accutane cleared up my acne, it left my skin drier than before, so I’ve been refining my skincare to focus on hydration and healing acne scars. Here’s what I’ve been doing to keep my skin clear and nourished.

1. Oil Cleanser

I start my nighttime routine with an oil cleanser to remove all traces of makeup and dirt. I love using DHC Deep Cleansing Oil—it’s gentle and leaves my skin feeling hydrated instead of stripped. On days when I wear more makeup, I double cleanse with a foam cleanser to ensure everything is fully removed.

2. Exfoliate

I exfoliate every 2-3 days using Dr. Brandt’s Age Defying Microdermabrasion. This scrub is a long-time favorite, and I really focus on massaging it into my skin for a few minutes to get the most out of it. It helps reduce acne scars and smooths my skin’s texture, making my makeup apply more evenly. I’ve also noticed my pores appear smaller after using it. Plus, it contains lactic acid for an added exfoliating benefit.

3. Toner

I’ve been following a Korean skincare routine for several years now, and applying toner while my skin is still damp is a key step. Currently, I’m using Earth Recipe’s Energy Boosting Toner. I’ve been really pleased with this product, as it absorbs quickly and leaves my skin feeling refreshed.

4. Essence

Essences are an important step in Korean skincare, and I never skip this part of my routine. The SKII Facial Treatment Essence is a classic, and I’ve noticed a visible difference in my skin’s brightness after using it. However, since it’s on the pricier side, I’ve been using Miisha Time Evolution Essence, which works similarly but is much more affordable.

5. Serum

I’m currently loving Natural Pacific’s Fresh Herb Origin Serum, which has a rich, sticky texture due to its high oil content. It can be a bit intense at first, but with regular use, it brightens my skin significantly. When I ran out of this serum, I switched to The Ordinary’s 100% Plant-Derived Squalane, which is hydrating and perfect for dry skin.

6. Retinol

I’ve been using The Ordinary’s Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, and I’m very happy with it. I’ve been using retinol for a while, so my skin is accustomed to it, but if you’re new to retinol, be aware that it can cause irritation initially. My dermatologists always recommend retinol for acne scarring and pore size reduction, and I’ve noticed it makes a real difference. Just remember to always wear sunscreen when using retinol.

7. Special Treatment

The discovery of Sunday Riley’s Good Genes was a game-changer for me. This product has helped heal my acne scars, and I noticed immediate improvements in my skin texture and complexion. Although it’s pricey at $105 a bottle, it works wonders. To make it last longer, I alternate with The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%. It’s a more affordable alternative, but it doesn’t quite match the magic of Good Genes.

8. Face Oil

After applying my serums and treatments, I love to finish my routine with a nourishing face oil. I’ve been using Tata Harper’s Face Oil, which has a soothing scent and provides deep hydration. I also love Sunday Riley’s Luna Oil, which is a retinol oil that’s great for calming my complexion and preventing breakouts.

9. Emulsion

If my skin feels particularly dry, I add an emulsion into my routine. Emulsions are lightweight moisturizers that can help lock in hydration. I sometimes use E Nature’s Zeo Brightening Emulsion, which I apply after my serums and before my moisturizer.

10. Moisturizer

I always finish with a water-based moisturizer to seal in all the hydration. Currently, I’m using one by Dr. Roebuck, but once it’s gone, I plan to switch to Laneige’s Water Bank Moisturizer. I prefer water-based moisturizers for their light texture, especially after layering all my other skincare products.

11. Eye Cream

Finally, I apply a small amount of eye cream to target puffiness and fine lines. I’ve been using Fresh’s Black Tea Age-Delay Eye Cream. It contains caffeine, which helps reduce under-eye puffiness and tighten the skin. I use a light touch with my ring finger to apply it, as I’ve heard applying too much can lead to sagging.

By following this routine, my skin has become healthier, more hydrated, and better equipped to fight acne scars and dryness. It’s a process that has taken time, but it’s been incredibly effective. If you have any skincare tips or product recommendations, feel free to leave them in the comments. Happy skincare!

Jeff and I have shared a deep love for fragrances since we first started dating. One of our fondest memories was spending hours in a Barney’s store, exploring various perfumes and colognes. This became one of our favorite pastimes, whether we were shopping or traveling. Whenever we visit a new city, discovering new fragrances is as exciting as finding the best restaurants or vintage shops.

I’ve always believed that the right scent can perfectly complement your personal style and even lift your mood. Just like the comforting smell of freshly brewed coffee or freshly cut grass, fragrance can awaken your senses and brighten your day. And when you receive a compliment about your perfume, you know you’ve chosen a winner!

Over the years, both Jeff and I have built a collection of beloved fragrances. Our preferences often overlap, especially when it comes to spicy, woodsy scents with notes of leather or tobacco, sometimes mixed with amber or vetiver. My personal favorites tend to lean toward fragrances that remind me of a sophisticated man smoking a pipe in his study, or the romantic scent of Ava Gardner lounging on a beach at night in Spain.

In this post, we’re sharing some of our favorite fragrances, broken down into three categories: Everyday, Going Out, and Special Occasion. Some of these are affordable and great for daily wear, while others are more luxurious and perfect for those special moments. We’ve organized our scents this way in our bathrooms, and we think you might find this method helpful too!

Everyday Fragrances

When it comes to everyday scents, I’ve discovered a couple of newer favorites. One that I’ve really been enjoying is Fat Electrician by Etat Libre d’Orange. I picked it up a few years ago from Set & Co in Dallas, and it’s quickly become a staple in my routine. We’ve also visited the shop in Paris, and I always look forward to picking up more.

Another favorite is Brooklyn by Gallivant. This fresh scent has floral and citrus notes with a hint of spice and smokiness, making it perfect for daily wear. It’s light, but still intriguing.

As for Jeff, he swears by Carolina Herrera’s 212 for Men. It’s one of his most enduring favorites, with a fresh, peppery scent that I love on him. He also enjoys Eccentrics Molecules Molecule 02, a fragrance made from ambroxan, one of the oldest compounds used in perfumery. It’s subtle yet comforting and perfect for an understated, clean scent.

Going Out

When it’s time to go out for dinner or a weekend event, we both enjoy using more extravagant scents. One of my go-to choices is Kyoto by Comme des Garçons. It’s woodsy and earthy, and Jeff always compliments me when I wear it.

Another recent favorite of mine is Incendo by La Curie, a smoky fragrance that is both sexy and intriguing. If you want something playful, Lost Cherry by Tom Ford has a beautiful floral scent, balanced by the indulgent aroma of black cherry. Jeff absolutely loves it when I wear this one.

For Jeff, Wonderwood by Comme des Garçons is an all-time favorite, and we often find ourselves fighting over who gets to keep the bottle. It’s spicy, woodsy, and full of cedar and oud. He also loves Tom Ford’s Patchouli Absolu, a luxurious take on the classic essential oil that’s refined and seductive.

Jeff’s ultimate favorite, however, is Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Oud Satin Mood. It’s a rich, exotic fragrance with floral and woodsy notes that he can’t get enough of.

Special Occasion

For truly special occasions, I have a couple of signature scents that always make me feel glamorous. Fille en Aiguilles by Serge Lutens is my top pick for parties and events. Its smoky, woody aroma makes me feel like I’m stepping into a scene from La Dolce Vita.

Another favorite is Baudelaire by Byredo, which has a fresh, less smoky scent but is still perfectly balanced with leather and amber notes. If I can’t find it in my collection, I know Jeff has probably “borrowed” it!

For Jeff, Absinth by Nasomatto is his go-to special occasion fragrance. It’s a deeply masculine scent with earthy notes of herbs and wood, and because it only comes in 30ml bottles, he keeps it for more significant moments.

Lastly, Amber Sky by Ex Nihilo is Jeff’s favorite luxury scent for special occasions. It’s warm, exotic, and lingers on the skin with just a few spritzes. It’s on the pricier side, but Jeff recommends getting the travel set to save money while still enjoying the fragrance’s long-lasting effects.

Whether for daily wear or a special event, these are the fragrances that have earned a permanent spot in our collection. The right scent can truly elevate your mood and make a lasting impression, so why not treat yourself or someone special to a beautiful bottle of perfume this season?

This year, despite fewer occasions to get all glammed up, I’ve been experimenting with some exciting ways to create big, voluminous hair. As someone who’s always been a fan of dramatic hairstyles, especially those from the sixties, I’ve perfected a routine that adds lift, texture, and long-lasting volume. If you’re looking to achieve big, bouncy hair, here are the tools and products I use to make it happen.

1. Hot Rollers

Hot rollers are my secret weapon when it comes to creating that iconic big hair. While they may not be as popular as they once were, I still swear by them for their ability to give lift and lasting volume. They’ve been a go-to tool since the 1960s, and even supermodels like Linda Evangelista and Kate Moss swore by them backstage. Unlike curling irons, which can be time-consuming and tricky for at-home styling, hot rollers are easy to use and allow me to multitask, like doing my makeup or getting dressed, while they work their magic. I prefer the Remington hot rollers, which have clips that hold well without leaving dents in my hair. For maximum volume, I like to set my hair in the morning and let it cool down throughout the day for a natural, Bardot-inspired look by the evening.

2. Volumizing Hairspray

When it comes to hairspray, I’m quite selective. My current favorite is OGX’s Big Hairspray, which is perfect for adding volume and holding my curls in place. It adds fullness to my fine hair without weighing it down or making it crunchy. I also love Elnet for a softer hold, but OGX has been my go-to when I want extra volume. It’s affordable and easily available at CVS.

3. Hair Oil

After using hot rollers, I apply a small amount of hair oil to the ends of my hair. This helps add shine, reduce frizz, and smooth out any rough texture. The Dry Bar 100 Proof Treatment Oil has been a long-time favorite of mine. It also helps revitalize my hair on days when I’ve used a lot of dry shampoo, making it look polished without feeling greasy.

4. Sea Salt Spray

Sea salt spray is a must for adding texture and creating that “undone” look that makes big hair look more chic than overly styled. I’ve tried many sea salt sprays, but they often either make my hair too dry or greasy. However, I’m a huge fan of Hairstory’s Undressed spray. It’s lightweight, doesn’t weigh my hair down, and gives me that perfect beachy texture. I always apply it generously before blow-drying for a voluminous, textured finish.

5. Texturizing Dry Shampoo

Bumble & Bumble’s Pret a Powder is my secret weapon for building texture and volume. I have fine hair, and this dry shampoo is a lifesaver for adding grip and body. It helps my hair hold its shape and boosts volume, making it an essential product when I want to achieve full, voluminous hair. It’s especially helpful when I’m going for that dramatic, Bardot-inspired look.

6. Boar Bristle Teasing Brush

Teasing is key for achieving a bombshell effect at the crown of my hair. I lift sections of hair and backcomb the roots gently using a boar bristle brush. I work in small sections, lifting and backcombing at the crown before misting it with hairspray to set the volume. Teasing often gets a bad rap, but when done correctly, it can create a flattering and voluminous look.

7. Texturizing Finishing Spray

To complete my big hair look, I use a texturizing finishing spray. The Dry Bar Triple Sec Spray and Oribe Dry Finishing Spray are my favorites for adding extra volume and texture. I lift large sections of hair at the root, spray it from a distance, and then scrunch the hair to enhance the texture. This step gives my hair that lived-in, voluminous finish that lasts all day.

By incorporating these simple tools and products into my routine, I can achieve big, voluminous hair that looks effortlessly chic. Whether you’re looking for added texture, lift, or just a bit more volume, these tips will help you create the bold, dramatic hair of your dreams.

This year, despite fewer occasions to get dolled up, I’ve managed to discover some truly game-changing beauty products. While some of these are not new to me, they certainly deserve a mention. From skincare to makeup, here are the products that stood out the most in my beauty routine in 2020.

Skincare

Essence: Primera Miracle Seed Essence, $58 I’ve been using Korean essences for over a decade, and it’s a step I can never skip in my skincare routine. Among the many I’ve tried, the Primera Miracle Seed Essence has become my go-to for the past two years. It’s affordable, lasts for months, and works wonders on the skin. This essence smooths texture, promotes firmness, and preps my skin perfectly for the rest of my products. Plus, the cotton pads that come with it are a bonus!

Face Oil: The Feelist, $95 When it comes to face oils, I’ve tried countless options, but The Feelist truly stands out. This oil brightens my complexion and gives me a fresh, glowing look. Its light texture and powerful ingredients like CBD, essential fatty acids, and vitamins have made it my favorite part of my skincare routine, day and night.

Cleanser #1: Glossier Milk Jelly Cleanser, $9 I prefer gentle cleansers, and Glossier’s Milk Jelly Cleanser has become my top choice. It removes makeup and skincare residue without irritating my eyes or stripping my skin’s moisture. I’ve learned that cleansers work best when massaged for at least 30 seconds, and this one does the job beautifully.

Cleanser #2: Amore Pacific Enzyme Powder Cleanser, $60 I double cleanse at night, and after using the Glossier cleanser, I follow up with Amore Pacific’s Enzyme Powder. This product gently exfoliates and removes dead skin cells, which is especially helpful when I’m dealing with texture buildup from retinol. It’s a lifesaver when my skin needs a little extra TLC.

Moisturizer: Beauty Pie JapanFusion Supreme Cream ($80 full price, $12.50 member price) I love a rich moisturizer, and the Beauty Pie JapanFusion Supreme Cream fits the bill perfectly. Packed with antioxidants, it deeply nourishes and hydrates my skin without feeling heavy. It’s a splurge-worthy treat that leaves my skin feeling luxurious.

Exfoliator: Moon Juice Acid Potion, $33-42 Moon Juice’s Acid Potion is a powerful AHA and BHA blend that has transformed my skin. It helps with cell turnover, smoothing out texture, and fading acne scars. While it stung a bit at first, I’ve grown to love the tingle, and the results are undeniable. This has become an essential part of my skincare routine.

Cystic Acne Treatment/Retinol: Tazarotene (prescription only) After struggling with a severe cystic acne breakout this year, my dermatologist prescribed Tazarotene, a topical retinoid. It took some time to adjust, but now I rarely experience flare-ups, and it significantly helps with fading acne scars. It’s a powerful retinoid that has truly changed the game for me.

Makeup

Primer: Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base Priming Moisturizer, $62 This primer doubles as skincare, providing intense hydration while smoothing my skin. It’s perfect for prepping my face before applying foundation and works wonders even when my skin is a bit irritated or flaky from retinol. The luxurious, spa-like feeling it gives makes it a must-have in my routine.

Foundation: NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation, $40 | Giorgio Armani Neo Nude True-to-Skin Natural Glow Foundation, $40 I can’t choose just one foundation, so I have two favorites. The NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation offers full coverage with a velvet matte finish. It’s perfect for events or days when I need my makeup to last. On the other hand, the Armani Neo Nude foundation is light and dewy, offering a natural, skin-like finish. It’s ideal for everyday wear and gives a beautiful, healthy glow.

Blush: Kjaer Weis Cream Blush in “Blossoming,” from $32 Kjaer Weis’ cream blush is my go-to for a natural flush of color. The formula is creamy yet long-lasting, and it stays put throughout the day. “Blossoming” is a warm coral pink that gives me that perfect “English rose” look. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves clean beauty.

Lipstick: Peripera Ink Airy Velvet Stick, $9 Peripera’s Ink Airy Velvet Stick has become a staple in my makeup bag. I love how comfortable and long-wearing it is, and the shades are flattering for my pale skin. My favorite shades are #3 Orange Cookie, #5 Burnt Tangerine, and #12 Naturally Healthy, which I wear almost every day.

Eyeshadow: PONY EFFECT Get Ready With Me Palette in Coachella, $36 This eyeshadow palette is perfect for everyday use. The shades are versatile, offering both subtle neutrals and darker shades for when I want to intensify my look. The glittery shades are also great for adding a little fun to my makeup, and I love using it for creating fake freckles as well.

Hair Products

Hair Primer: Amika’s The Wizard Detangling Primer, $25 This primer has been a game-changer for me. My fine hair tangles easily, but since I started using The Wizard, I no longer wake up with knots. It detangles, conditions, and protects from heat damage, all while smelling amazing.

Shine: Kenra Professional Platinum Silkening Mist, $22 This shine spray adds incredible silkiness to my hair. I initially wasn’t impressed, but after using it while blow-drying my hair, I noticed a huge difference. It gives my hair a glossy, shiny finish without weighing it down.

Texture Spray: Kerastase VIP Texturing Spray, $29 Kerastase’s VIP Texturing Spray is my go-to for voluminous, textured hair. I use it after hot rollers or to add structure to a messy updo. It’s perfect for creating that full-bodied, effortlessly chic look.

Body

Pelvic Pain and Menstrual Cramp Relief: Dr. Kerklaan’s Natural CBD PMS Cream, $65 This CBD-infused cream has been a lifesaver for my endometriosis-related pain. It provides relief for pelvic pain, especially during PMS, and helps me feel more comfortable. I keep it on hand for daily use and highly recommend it for anyone dealing with similar issues.

That’s it for my 2020 beauty favorites! While I didn’t find a new favorite in every category, these products have truly impressed me this year. What about you? What beauty products have been game-changers for you in 2020?