What I’m not buying this Sephora sale
A cross-retailer edit of what I actually buy and use
The Sephora savings event never ceases to make a restock feel essential. I do get the appeal of checking out with a discount, but I’ve found it’s better to purchase what you need on your own timeline.
I tend to place most of my orders through Moda beauty or Violet Grey because I love the experience of both, but I also think it’s very chic to get your essentials at Duane Reade or CVS. All this to say, if you are ready for a restock, here is a tightly edited version of my minimalist beauty essentials, including the products I’ve repurchased time and again regardless of a sale.
A few are at Sephora*/some aren’t, but everything here has earned its place!
Skin
I have come back to this serum more times than I can count when my skin needs a full reset. It’s like green juice for the face.
On most mornings/nights my full routine consists of this essence and this serum (plus this SPF if it’s the AM). That’s it! The full sized bottles are TSA approved so it’s usually all I travel with too.
Another product that’s amazing for travel* and deceivingly good at removing every stitch of makeup.
Face wash is my favorite category— this for a gentle but satisfying scrub*, this for every day, and this once a week for a very deep clean.
Moisturizer isn’t something I use daily but when it’s needed, I alternate between these lighter* and heavier* options.
This* really does make a difference with redness and fine lines when I am consistent.
I think we are all over exfoliating way too much. My facialist confirmed this just last week. These pads 1-2 nights a week is more than enough!
I prefer this to retinol and use it at night only the weekends (the only way I can attempt to skin cycle) followed by the AB moisturizer above. And this is the only Vitamin C product that actually works without irritating my skin.
I’m sorry to say this is my favorite eye cream but it’s the reason I haven’t done botox in 2+ years! I might apply it to my 11’s too.
This makes my skin look/feel brand new every time I use it. Code HELEN15 is available—same for the SPF above!
These are the only eye/sheet masks that actually make a difference IMO, but I’d be lying if I didn’t admit I’m dying to try these.
I’ve finally turned the corner after a really bad haircut about a year ago that truly made me want to hide. I credit the recovery, dramatic as that sounds, to patience, consistent trims, and finding a stylist I really align with. Heat styling is hard to give up completely, but I’ve been able to get away with washing only twice a week, which I do think helps!
Hair
This entire line up of products truly is that good*. I used to think it was over the top to travel with your own shampoo but now I’m that girl.
If you use as much dry shampoo* as I do, a good clarifying treatment* every other wash is necessary.
I used to be very loyal to Mason Pearson but I’ve fully converted to LBB. The mini is in my bag at all times along with a travel size* dry shampoo.
I’m not sure why I resisted this for so long*, but it’s cut the time I spend styling my hair dramatically and my hair feels so much healthier for it. I was able to completely get rid of every other hot tool.
Trust me, you will feel the difference after one wash. I use this once a week and the strength of my hair is noticeably improved.
Makeup
I don’t stray from anything here* and I’m praying for an eyebrow product to come out next. Otherwise, this is the brow pencil I can’t live without* after much trial and error.
This is a newer addition to my routine, but I love how convenient it is. It has a very natural finish, so it’s perfect for no makeup days to cancel out any redness/darkness without a trace.
Body
The before/after photos from this exfoliating bar* are not an exaggeration. It can be a little abrasive, so I alternate using with this gentler option.
I’m not loyal to a body wash but this is the best after-shower oil ever.
If you’ve been eyeing this, here is your sign. I’ve had mine for a few years and I’m fully addicted to it.
Honestly, I wish this list were even shorter. If you’re shopping, I’d keep it simple and stick to what you know works!
The airwrap is life changing