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The Ultimate Beauty Must-Haves You Need to Try
by Jamie Rivers
Updated: Sep. 10, 2020
Originally Published: Oct. 9, 2005
I often find myself questioning the intentions of those eager to sell me beauty products. It seems like the beauty industry is not just pushing paints and potions, but also the notion that I’m not beautiful without their offerings. As a woman and former advertising professional for some of the biggest names in beauty, I’ve seen firsthand how brands exploit insecurities.
Yet, despite this awareness, my passion for beauty products remains unshakable. My fascination with makeup, skincare, and even DIY concoctions made from kitchen staples has drawn me into various corners of the Internet. I religiously follow beauty blogs written by young enthusiasts, where lipsticks are graded based on factors like color payoff and longevity.
I scrutinize reviews on platforms like Makeup Alley, where fervent users share their own beauty obsessions. I have watched countless tutorials by the talented makeup artist Clara Johnson, who is simply remarkable. After trying a plethora of products from beauty bloggers and influencers, I can attest that not everything they recommend lives up to the hype.
Some beauty items are universally celebrated and appear on every “Top 10” list, but only a select few truly deserve your investment. (When I say “worthy,” I’m referring to products that suit my pale, dark-haired complexion, which isn’t plagued by acne or wrinkles… yet.)
Now that I’m no longer in the advertising game and haven’t received any freebies, I recently downsized my collection, giving away 90% of my products to my friend Lisa. Here’s what I kept:
- Clé de Peau Concealer
This concealer is a game-changer. It avoids that dreaded cakey look, and it lasts throughout the day. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, it’s so effective you’ll likely forget your regrets. - Anastasia Beverly Hills Tinted Brow Gel
This incredible gel transforms sparse brows into full, defined arches. It holds the brows in place while filling in gaps, making it a must-have for anyone seeking a polished look. - Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick
While no lipstick is truly “kiss-proof,” this one comes close. It applies smoothly with a doe-foot applicator and dries to a stunning matte finish that endures meals without leaving a messy residue. - Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector
This illuminating cream gives your skin that red-carpet glow. A tiny amount applied to strategic areas can elevate your look instantly, just watch out for overdoing it! - Kérastase Bain Chroma Riche
This shampoo isn’t essential, but once you try it, you’ll believe you can’t live without it. It leaves hair soft and shiny, and friends who don’t even color their hair rave about it. - T3 Featherweight 2 Hair Dryer
Say goodbye to lengthy drying sessions! This lightweight dryer is remarkably efficient, cutting down drying time significantly without the noise. - Kevyn Aucoin The Curling Mascara
While it may not deliver the thickest lashes, it enhances your natural beauty, giving you lifted and defined lashes that won’t smear throughout the day. - MAC 217 Eye Shadow Brush
For those venturing into eyeshadow techniques, this brush is a must. It helps blend colors seamlessly without accidents that could ruin your look. - Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat
As its name suggests, this top coat dries quickly, providing a salon-quality finish in no time. Just be careful not to smudge your nails! - Bioderma Créaline Solution Micellaire
This miraculous product is as gentle as water and effectively removes makeup far better than traditional methods. It’s beloved by all for a reason, and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
This list isn’t exhaustive, but I can confidently say these products have earned their place in my routine. If you’re curious about home insemination kits, check out this informative guide that might be helpful. For couples navigating their fertility journey, Make a Mom offers excellent resources, along with WebMD for understanding insemination success.
In summary, these beauty products are my personal favorites that have proven their worth over time. Embrace what works for you, and enjoy the journey of self-discovery in the beauty realm!