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Calling all skincare enthusiasts! There’s a new player in town that’s about to take your beauty routine to a whole new level. Introducing Peach & Lily’s Retinal for All Renewing Serum, the latest sensation that’s causing quite a stir in the beauty community. If you’re ready to bid farewell to fine lines, wrinkles, and dull skin, this transformative elixir is about to become your new best friend.
Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is retinal? Well, here’s the 411. Retinal is the advanced and powerful sibling of the well-known skincare ingredient, retinol. Think of retinal as retinol on steroids but without the intimidating side effects. It’s like giving your skin an anti-aging shot without the risk of irritation, inflammation, and peeling.
Okay, how else are they different? Retinal is like the overachiever who always comes out on top. While retinol needs to be converted by your skin before it can work its magic, retinal swoops in and starts the cell turnover process almost immediately. It’s a one-step wonder that’s bound to make your skin look softer than a baby’s bottom after each use.
Now, here’s the best part. This serum is perfect for everyone, from those just dipping their toes into the anti-aging world to seasoned veterans. If you’re new to the retinal or retinol game, this serum will gently introduce your skin to the wonders of retinal, offering all the benefits with minimal irritation. And for those of you who are no strangers to the powerful ingredient, get ready for a whole new level of potency and efficacy. This serum will leave you wondering why you didn’t switch to retinal sooner.
@dermguru #peachandlilypartner Finally a retinoid for that EVERYONE can tolerate – using @Peach & Lily Retinal for All with 0.3% ectoin and my skin is grateful this winter #retinalforall #skintok #retinal
But enough with the technicalities—let’s talk about what you all really wanna know: the results. Picture yourself looking into the mirror and seeing skin that’s basically like glass, with a radiant glow that rivals the sun itself. Say goodbye to fine lines and wrinkles, as this serum works its magic to promote collagen production and improve skin elasticity. And did we mention it also helps with pesky dark spots and uneven skin tone? Consider it your secret weapon for that flawless complexion you’ve always dreamed of.
Applying the Retinal for All Renewing Serum is like giving your skin a luxurious treat. With its silky-smooth texture and fast-absorbing formula, it glides on effortlessly, leaving you feeling like you’ve just stepped out of a spa. Plus, it’s packed with skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, giving your skin the extra dose of love it deserves.
So, if you’re ready to take your skincare routine to the next level, this serum is the holy grail you’ve been waiting for. Get ready to see results and see them fast. So go ahead, add a little retinal magic to your life, and let the compliments roll in.
Shop It: Peach & Lily Retinal For All Renewing Serum, $55, Ulta
Betches may receive a portion of revenue if you click a link and purchase a product or service. The links are independently placed and do not influence editorial content.
When it comes to makeup, finding the perfect foundation is key to achieving a ~flawless~ complexion. But, let’s be honest, high-end foundations can cost more than we spend in a week at Starbucks. That’s why we were excited to discover that the Halo Glow Liquid Filter foundation is a perfect dupe for the Hollywood Flawless Filter foundation—and cost a lot less.
The Hollywood Flawless Filter from Charlotte Tilbury has been a cult favorite among beauty lovers for years, thanks to its ability to give the skin a radiant, lit-from-within glow without a filter. However, at $40 for a 1 oz bottle, it’s not the most budget-friendly option out there.
That’s where the Halo Glow Liquid Filter foundation comes in. At just $14 for a 1.35 oz bottle, this foundation delivers the same radiant, luminous finish as the Hollywood Flawless Filter, but at a significantly lower price point.
So, what makes the Halo Glow Liquid Filter such a great dupe for the Hollywood Flawless Filter? For starters, both products are designed to be used as a primer, foundation, or highlighter, making them incredibly versatile. They also both contain light-reflecting particles that help to blur imperfections and give the skin a radiant, dewy finish.
But while the Hollywood Flawless Filter only comes in seven shades, the Halo Glow Liquid Filter offers a wider range of shades to choose from, making it easier to find a match for your skin tone. The formula is also vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens, sulfates, and phthalates, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
In terms of performance, I’ve got to say that the Halo Glow Liquid Filter definitely holds its own against the Hollywood Flawless Filter. Both foundations give the skin a beautiful, radiant finish that looks natural and healthy. And while the Hollywood Flawless Filter might have a slightly more luxurious feel to it, the Halo Glow Liquid Filter is still a fantastic option for those on a budget.
Overall, if you’re a fan of the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter but don’t want to break the bank, the Halo Glow Liquid Filter is a great alternative. It delivers the same radiant, luminous finish as its high-end counterpart, but the price tag won’t make you weep. I say give it a try. Your wallet will thank you.
@theoliviasaurusrex finally comparing the lightest shade of @Charlotte Tilbury flawless filter & @elfyeah halo glow ☺️. the elf one is definitely more orange and thicker in consistency but far more affordable than the flawless filter! what do you think? ☺️ #flawlessfilter #charlottetilbury #charlottetilburydupe #charlottetilburyflawlessfilter #elf #elfhaloglow #elfhaloglowliquidfilter #ctilburymakeup #paleskin #paleskinmakeup #palegirl #palegirls #fairskin #fairskinmakeup #flawlessfilterdupe #glowyskin #dewyskin #primer #flawlessfiltercharlottetilbury #haloglow #haloglowliquidfilter #radiantskin #glowymakeup
Shop It: e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter, $14, Ulta
Betches may receive a portion of revenue if you click a link and purchase a product or service. The links are independently placed and do not influence editorial content.
Is it just me or is glam makeup having a total comeback? I’ve been doing an unhealthy amount of scrolling lately and seeing similar trends all over social media that made their debut back in 2013…and I am absolutely here for it. What I’m not here for? Having to pay full price for all the products that I threw out because Gen-Z called them cheugy. But luckily for me (and TBH every makeup-lover on TikTok), Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty is fully underway.
I swear, sometimes a sale comes at the most opportune moment. The way I’ve used and abused my Beauty Blender without replacing it would absolutely disgust the average makeup connoisseur. I’ve used it one too many times to try Meredith Duxbury’s foundation technique and I’m pretty sure it’s now permanently infused with my bronzer. Thankfully, the Beauty Blender Bubble Sponge will be 50% off on March 18th, so naturally I’ve already added five to my cart. While I was at it, I found the best deals for the final 15 days of the sale so you can sit back, relax, and figure out WTF all these skincare trends really mean.
Friday, March 17th
Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel
The laminated brow look has gotten so out of control that unless you look like you just got electrocuted, you’re probably doing it wrong. While I’m personally not ready to commit to a full-on lamination, this brow gel has been an amazing alternate. There’s a reason it has over 5K+ positive reviews.
Shop it: Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel, $22 $11, Ulta
Saturday, March 18th
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer
2023 has officially become the year of Rhianna and I’m not mad about it. Considering the Super Bowl was literally just one giant ad for Fenty Beauty, I would be off my game if I didn’t tell you that the Pro Filt’r concealer will be $15. Time to stock up!
Shop it: Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Concealer, $30 $15, Ulta
Sunday, March 19th
Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear Foundation
If you want a foundation that’s going to last longer than the timeline of your situationship, this is the one. Estée Lauder has been around for years, but even though your mom may have introduced you to the brand, they’ve certainly kept up with the times. With 26 different shades and an SPF, it’s already doing more than I will any given Sunday.
Shop it: Estée Lauder Double Wear Sheer Long-Wear Foundation, $48 $24, Ulta
Monday, March 20th
Kopari Sun Shield Body Glow Gel SPF 50
Okay, so my seasonal depression hasn’t lifted *quite* yet. But at some point soon the sun will start setting after I’ve gotten home from work and I’m going to need a daily SPF. This one pretty much promises a glow-up and I’m totally down to try it.
Shop it: Kopari Sun Shield Body Glow Gel SPF 50, $39 $19.50, Ulta
Tuesday, March 21st
First Aid Beauty KP Smoothing Body Lotion
The only thing trendier on TikTok then laminated eyebrows is getting rid of chicken skin. And while the name keratosis pilaris makes the experience sound complicated, the fix for it is not. This KP Smoothing Body Lotion is 10% AHA which is an exfoliant ingredient that’s supposed to get rid of those pesky bumps. (And at 50% off it’s totally worth a shot).
Shop it: First Aid Beauty KP Smoothing Body Lotion, $28 $14, Ulta
Wednesday, March 22nd
Juvia’s Place Glass Lip Gloss
Nothing says no-makeup makeup than a clear gloss. There’s just something that makes you feel like you have your shit together when you pull out a fresh tube. This Juvia’s Place Glass Lip Gloss is an Ulta exclusive and a Black-Owned business, so let’s give it some support considering my entire mood is supported by having lip gloss handy.
Shop it: Juvia’s Place Glass Lip Gloss, $14 $7, Ulta
Thursday, March 23rd
Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer
My entire makeup routine has been built on the back of this primer. Like the amount this one product carries for me should be illegal. It smooths my skin and helps minimize my pores which is incredible considering you can literally see them from outer space.
Shop it: Dr. Brandt Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer, $48 $24, Ulta
Friday, March 24th
Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for the last year, you probably know who Alix Earle is. And if you don’t, one thing you should know is that she’s famous for her lash routine which includes this mascara. I’m not going to lie and say I haven’t been influenced, because I may or may not have two of these already. Third one’s the charm.
Shop it: Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, $28 $14, Ulta
Saturday, March 25th
Benefit Goof Proof Waterproof Easy Shape & Fill Eyebrow Pencil
Getting back to the laminated brow look, you wouldn’t be a real TikTok trend follower if you didn’t fill them into look fluffy. This product has literally taught me everything I know about filling in my brows. The name does not steer your wrong—it really is goof proof.
Shop it: Benefit Goof Proof Waterproof Easy Shape & Fill Eyebrow Pencil, $25 $12.50, Ulta
Sunday, March 26th
Tula The Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser
It’s literally called Cult Classic. Enough said.
Shop it: Tula The Cult Classic Purifying Face Cleanser, $24 $12, Ulta
Monday, March 27th
KVD Tattoo Pencil Liner
I’ve always been a fan of the Tattoo Liquid Liner by KVD. But ever since the bold glamour filter came out on TikTok I’ve been using a gel liner to attempt that glam IRL. I can honestly say that I will never look like the filter, but this liner was amazing, so I’d say that’s a win.
Shop it: KVD Tattoo Pencil Liner, $23 $11.50, Ulta
Tuesday, March 28th
GrandeBROW Brow Enhancing Serum
I swear I still have nightmares about the way I would over-pluck my brows in the early 2000s. (It was cool at the time, okay?!) Thankfully, I discovered this serum a few years ago and I finally feel at peace knowing I can grow them back.
Shop it: GrandeBROW Brow Enhancing Serum, $73 $46.50, Ulta
Wednesday, March 29th
Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeshadow
Guys, it’s officially time to say goodbye to those Naked Palettes. No, I’m serious—they’ve probably been expired for years. These individual shadows allow you to pick out all your faves. And considering y0ur probably only used half your palette anyways, I’ll call that a blessing.
Shop it: Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeshadow, $21 $10.50, Ulta
Thursday, March 30th
Benefit The POREfessional Pore Minimizing Primer
I really wish this stuff came in a vat-sized container because it’s truly magic. I use it on days when I’m not feeling like a full face of makeup, because it somehow always makes me feel like a literal baby with perfect, poreless skin.
Shop it: Benefit The POREfessional Pore Minimizing Primer, $34 $17, Ulta
Friday, March 31st
Morphe X Ariel Signature Face 5-Piece Face Brush Set
These brushes make me feel like I popped straight out of a 2012 makeup tutorial on YouTube. I’ve always been obsessed with Morphe brushes—and honestly always will be.
Shop it: Morphe X Ariel Signature Face 5-Piece Face Brush Set, $60 $30, Ulta
Saturday, April 1st
Kylie Cosmetics Pressed Powder Eyeshadow Palettes
Quite frankly, I never thought I’d see the day when a Kylie Cosmetics palette was in stock, let alone on sale. Like, are they actually just playing an April Fools joke on us? I hope not.
Shop it: Kylie Cosmetics Pressed Powder Eyeshadow Palettes, $32 $16, Ulta
Feature Image Credit: RODNAE Productions on Pexels
Presented by Ulta Beauty
Spring means relief from ice, cold, snow, etc. Unless you live in LA, where weather is just a myth, and then spring just means new trends are upon us! No matter where you live or what your current level of skill is at applying makeup, you can try (and pull off) these spring beauty trends. And even better is that on March 15 (technically still winter for you people on the East Coast), Ulta Beauty is starting their 21 Days of Beauty event, just in time for you to put all these trends to use. The event features daily beauty steals, offering 50% off top makeup and skincare products for one day only. That means you can’t do your indecisive “add to cart and let it sit there collecting dust of a week” thing. If you want to take advantage of the amazing deals Ulta Beauty is offering, you have to act fast. If you want to be the most on top of the spring beauty trends this season, here’s what looks to try, and which products will help you achieve the looks.
Glassy But Classy
Since everything we loved in middle school is back in, glossy lips are back, but this time we’re elevating the look and doing it in a glassy, smooth way (aka no hair stuck in your lip gloss). To try this look out yourself (and make your 7th grade self super jealous), grab a Kylie Cosmetics High Gloss (an Ulta Beauty exclusive) that’s on sale on 3/28, or the Buxom Full On Plumping Lip Cream on 4/2. The key is hydration, not lip superglue, this time around. You can just swipe it on and go!
Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Cream
Speaking of hydrating, this also applies to your skin. We want to look fresh-faced and glassy instead of the super matte looks we’ve done for the last 10 years. I’m extremely oily, so THANK GOD, my time has come! But even with my oily skin, serums somehow keep my natural oil under control and give me a glow, as opposed to my natural look which is “greasy pizza”. For life-changing serums, the Mario Badescu Vitamin C Serum is on sale on 3/15 and the Peach & Lily Glass Skin Serum is on sale exclusively at Ulta Beauty 4/4. Serums are so easy—you just put them on after washing your face but under moisturizers or sunscreens. They make such a difference in your skin’s texture, trust me.
Make People Think You Got Microblading & Eyelash Extensions
Lashes are always in, but this season, it’s more important than ever to have them big and bold. If you’re into falsies, select lashes go on sale on 3/19. Otherwise, a couple swipes of Tarte Maneater Mascara on 4/4 (also exclusive to Ulta Beauty), or Benefit Badgal Bang Mascara on 3/20 will finish off your look.
Benefit Badgal Bang Mascara
But since your eyes are the window to your soul or whatever (wouldn’t know, I’ve been told I don’t have a soul), we can’t stop at lashes, and have to give brows some love too. Is there ANYTHING more important than brows right now? The answer is no. And since the razor-thin brows have been out since we all graduated high school, we can grow out our brows but still keep them neat and well-groomed. If you have sparse brows from the days of overplucking, pick up the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz pencil on 3/15. If you need to keep unruly brows tamed down, try the Benefit Gimme Brow eyebrow gel on 4/4.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz pencil
Benefit Gimme Brow eyebrow gel
Bold, Bright Eyes
The best part of spring is how everyone puts away their dark wardrobe in favor of fun, bright colors. Well, now we’re doing that with our makeup colors too. Instead of going dark with your going-out looks, neon is now the way to play. You can do bright eyeshadows (select Lime Crime palettes on sale on 3/24), or lips (select Kylie Cosmetics lipsticks and glosses on 3/28), but unless you’re a very skilled colorist or makeup artist, you probably should not do both at the same time. Think super hot pink lipstick or a bright blue eyeshadow (but not both, lest you look like a clown). Neon is a super fun and modern way to change your look and really easy to pull off well through summer.
Finish off your fun neon eyeshadow with a bold liner that’s a little easier to apply than the traditional cat-eye. Apply it along your top eyelashes and flick it out towards the ends to imply longer lashes. You still get the drama, but it doesn’t take quite the same level of hand-eye coordination. My holy grail favorite eyeliner of all time is Stila Stay All Day Eyeliner, which you can buy on sale on 3/26, or IT Cosmetics Superhero Eyeliner on 3/27.
IT Cosmetics Superhero Eyeliner
You guys are SO WELCOME for all the savings you’re about to get from Ulta Beauty. Get your credit card ready, because you do not want to miss the 21 Days of Beauty event before it ends on April 4th. Now is the time to spring clean all your old, out-of-style makeup and start fresh with this amazing sale.
Images: Ulta Beauty
Like many millennials with jobs, my beauty look is pretty consistent day-to-day, but that doesn’t mean I don’t have 82 tinted moisturizers, 41 mascaras, and about a million different facial mists. I like to mix it up, what can I say? If you, too, are an out-and-proud beauty junkie, welcome. It is my personal belief that the best time to buy beauty products is around Thanksgiving, because not only is everything cheap af, but everything is sold in sets. Yes. Please. Give me a million eyeshadows that have just slightly different undertones. Honestly, I love this holiday so much because we spend the whole day being grateful for all of the sh*t we have, but only until midnight when we’ll fight each other to the f*cking death at Target to get that 30% off KitchenAid mixer. #America, right? So if you fully embrace this holiday as a day of gluttony, scoop up these beauty deals before your friends do.
Ulta
Obviously, I have to start with the DSW of beauty because it just has so much stuff to basically give away this holiday season. Because they have about a thousand different sales going on during Thanksgiving weekend, I’m just going to name the few brands I’d personally recommend. Let’s start with 25% off Macadamia Professional hair masques. If you’ve ever been in a drugstore, you’ve seen this brand’s hair products. I have been using the Deep Repair Masque since high school, and it’s never disappointed me. It’s meant for people with damaged hair, but as a bitch with proudly virgin hair (hold applause), I love it because it takes my hair to the next level in softness. If you think delayed gratification is stupid, you’ll love this masque because you’ll feel its effects immediately.
Macadamia Professional Nourishing Repair Masque
Next is the BECCA Volcano Goddess Eyeshadow Palette, which is 40% off, aka it’s $27, aka it’s free. Honestly, I don’t really wear eyeshadow because I don’t know how to put it on without looking like a toddler in drag, but the colors in this palette are pretty wearable. So if you stan an eyeshadow moment, this palette is for you.
BECCA Volcano Goddess Eyeshadow Palette
And lastly, Ulta is offering 25% off a Chi 1-inch Ceramic Hairstyling Iron. I don’t have the time or the skills to give myself Serena-van-der-Woodsen-circa-season-one waves, so I don’t even try. However, every now and then after sleeping on wet hair for no reason at all, I wake up with a really unfortunate situation on my head, and this little hero can fix it within 10 minutes. I don’t usually curl my whole head, but a few chunks of hair throughout gives me that tousled look that I’m really feeling these days. I know what you’re thinking: wtf are you talking about, this is a hair straightener? To you, I say the most natural-looking waves come from flat irons! Twist your hair around the iron and gently pull the iron down the twist. I’m telling you, it’s never failed me.
Chi Original 1” Ceramic Hairstyling Iron
Glow Recipe
Not going to lie, I discovered Glow Recipe at Urban Outfitters, and have been obsessed ever since. The relatively new brand is offering 20% off every single product on their website, so if you haven’t already added a slew of skin care to your cart, you’re behind, girl. Anyway, if you are the kind of person who can be seduced into buying something simply because the packaging is irresistible, get ready to purchase literally every damn Glow Recipe product. I have the Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask and am truly obsessed—mostly because it serves as a skin savior and decor on my dresser. Cute appearance aside, the mask itself is actually really good. It’s really moisturizing, but has a gel-like quality to it, so it doesn’t leave you feeling greasy and oily when you wake up. That ain’t cute.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask
Tatcha
This Japanese skin care brand is in pretty much every natural or ethical beauty store in the world and from November 28 through December, you can “play for a chance to get either 20% off your $100 purchase, 15% off your $75 purchase, or two free gifts with orders of $50 or more.” All of their products are cute and purple, but one of their products is truly better than the rest. I’m talking about the Luminous Dewy Skin Mist. Before you judge me for spending more than I’d like to admit on what you’d call water, hear me out. It’s made with botanical oils and humectants, which are responsible for the dew, and tbh it smells so damn good that I literally smile when I spray it, and I don’t even smile at puppies walking by.
Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist
Also, I recently learned that your moisturizer absorbs way better when your skin is moist (get over it) than when it’s bone dry. Think about it this way: your skin is like a sponge, and sponges don’t work until they’re damp, right? Another cult favorite from this brand is the Dewy Skin Cream, which I haven’t had the pleasure of trying because I am low on funds, but maybe I’ll hit the jackpot on their annoying Thanksgiving game and be able to afford it!
Kevyn Aucoin
Get ready for the most niche Black Friday sale literally ever: Get 25% off your order and receive a free Exotique Diamond Eye Gloss in “Galaxy” when you spend $75 on November 29. Like, really? Only on November 29? Honestly, I’m sure I’ll get an email on November 30 that says, “We’re so nice and extending our sale!” The only reason I’m down for this annoyingly specific sale is because I’m so in love with my Neo Blush and feel like she needs friends. I’ve been dying to try the Sensual Skin Enhancer Concealer because it’s a really thick cream (as opposed to a solid, like most concealers are) and comes in a cute little pot. Also, I feel like if I have this, I could just dab it where I need it (because it’s thicc af and does its job) and not have to wear foundation or tinted moisturizer.
Stila
Stila is offering 35% off site-wide plus free shipping on all orders of $50 or more from November 29 through December 1 with the promo code BF35. I own one product from Stila that has truly defined my going out look to a T, and it is the Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner. Executing the perfect cat eye is hard, but Stila’s liner is actually really easy to use because it’s just a long tapered pen. So all you have to do is angle it as you draw, so the line gets thinner, and that’s pretty much it. Easy peazy. Anyway, Stila also has a pretty legit price point for a mid-level brand, so I fully support this sale. Another product I had and loved until I broke it by accident was the Aqua Glow Serum Foundation, because it was pretty full coverage but had the consistency of water, so it didn’t feel heavy or caked.
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Drybar
I am more in love with my six-year-old Buttercup hair dryer than I am with the guy I’m seeing. Seriously. I have a lot of thick hair, so making sure it dries without going rogue is very important to me, and that’s why I have the Drybar one, the famous Josh Harry one, and, don’t judge me, the Dyson Supersonic. Drybar is shining down on thee and giving you 20% off all products, tools, and kits from November 21 through December 1. The Buttercup was the cheapest and oldest of the three I have, but it’s my OG and I use it every damn day. It weighs like, a pound, is pretty quiet, and does an excellent job. Generally, expensive hair dryers are better than drugstore ones because they use more power than they do heat, so they are less damaging to your hair. Cheaper hairdryers work in the opposite way, using more heat than watts, so you’re essentially frying your hair for longer. I also have the Drybar heat protectant, which smells so good that I leave it on my hands for as long as I can before the New York City subway system forces me to wash them. Luckily, the smell lingers in my hair for the entire day. By the way, Harry Josh is also having a Dermstore sale for 30% all of his products with the promo code DSGIFT from November 28 through December 2. His hair dryer is def cuter than the Buttercup, so if that matters to you, you can get it for a little less this holiday season!
L’Occitane
L’Occitane (pronounced “lox- ee- tahn”—you’re welcome) is giving us 20% off all full-size items with promo code CYBER from December 1 through 4, because they know no one is dragging their hungover asses to a store to buy their favorite hand cream. Speaking of which, I didn’t realize this brand sold anything besides hand cream until my grandmother gave me a beautifully packaged perfume (technically an eau de toilette) that smells so good that I spray it on my pillow before I go to sleep. It’s the Verbena scent, which is generally pretty clean with a hint of green tea. No complaints.
L’Occitane Verbena Eau de Toilette
Images: Ulta; Glow Recipe; Tatcha; Kevyn Acoin; Stila; Drybar’ L’Occitane; Eco Warrior Princess / Unsplash
Betches may receive a portion of revenue if you click a link and purchase a product or service. The links are independently placed and do not influence editorial content.
It’s the best of times and the worst of times. Sure, everyone is being merry, singing “Jingle Bell Rock”, feeling the urge to be creepily nice, getting a break from work, and of course, spending true quality time with your loved ones. However, at the same time, it f*cking sucks. It’s brick AF outside, it’s dark by like, 4pm, and you’re draining your bank account faster than you can say, “payday.”
Buying everyone in your family a gift this season feels amazing and all, but you’ve got to admit that watching the numbers on your account get smaller makes you die inside. Same. It may be the season of giving, but it’s also the season of receiving…even if that means secretly buying yourself that well-deserved palette or face mask you’ve been eyeing at Sephora. No one is here to judge, otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this right now. So here it is: the eight best beauty gift sets worth buying this year. Whether it’s for yourself or your best friend, no one has to know.
1. Lancôme Beauty Box
Lancôme is a really good brand that doesn’t get enough attention. I feel like people tend to forget about it because it’s on the pricier side, but this is one of the rare times when cost actually makes up for the quality you’re getting. This super dope gift set comes with 10 full-size bestsellers (FULL-SIZE, people!) and a cute makeup bag you can actually use.
2. Morphe Set 502 – 9 Piece Vegan Brush Set
If you already own one or have even sampled a shade or two, you’d know that Morphe palettes are life. Their shades are always really pigmented and right on point. The only things you need to go with it are their soft, clean brushes. These nine ~vegan~ eye and facial brushes cover all the bases when it comes to makeup application. They also come in a chic little brush case.
3. IT Cosmetics 100% Confidence Vault Skincare Trio
I am a huge fan of IT Cosmetics because it’s not only affordable for the quality, but also their products are all great for my annoyingly sensitive skin. Seriously, if you haven’t tried anything from this line yet, now is the time. This limited-edition anti-aging gift set comes with a full-size moisturizing super cream—a must-have during the winter—and travel sizes of their hydrating cleansing serum and eye cream.
4. MAC Shiny Pretty Things 10-Piece Lip Kit
‘Tis the season for vampy and festive-colored lips, so get ’em while they’re hot, in stock, and on sale. This colorful set comes with 10 fan-fav mini lipsticks ranging from deep burgundy to “very hot” pink to a classic deep-tone beige.
5. Tarte 5-Pc. Passport To Paradise Collectors Set
If you’re going away for the holidays, congratulations. I hate you, I’m a jealous b*tch. If you’re not going anywhere, that makes two of us. But, on the bright side, this cheery gift set is enough to make us pretend we’re getting our tans at the beach. It features 15 exclusive, new eyeshadow shades; a 12-hour lasting blush; eyeliner; and a bestselling glossy lip paint.
6. Glossier The Makeup Set
If you’re a consistent reader of my stuff (sidenote: you the real MVP) you’d know that I’ve tried plenty of products from the Insta-famous Glossier. It’s packaged in the millennial pink shade we love, stays in an affordable range, and actually delivers what it promises (most of the time). This gift set comes with the bestselling Boy Brow (my personal favorite), Lash Slick mascara, and Cloud Paint in the color of your choice.
7. Amika Smooth Criminal Polished Perfection Gift Set
Sounds too good to be true? It basically is. For a salon-style blowout in the comfort of your own home, this gift set isn’t one to skip over. It carries a top rated straightening brush, anti-humidity spray, dry shampoo, and a ton more. Get perfect-looking hair this holiday for under $100.
8. Philosophy’s Guide to Warm and Cozy
These colder temps make me want nothing more than fuzzy blankets, comfy slippers, unhealthy food, and dozens of hot baths. If that doesn’t sound like the most perfect and well-spent night ever, I’m officially a f*cking grandma. And you’re just missing out on a good-ass time. This deluxe holiday collection from Philosophy features shampoo, shower gel, and bubble bath, all in holiday-friendly scents such as apple cider and peppermint stick.
Images: Charisse Kenion/Unsplash; Nordstrom; Ulta (2); Saks Fifth Avenue; Macy’s; Glossier; Sephora (2)
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Black Friday (and more importantly, Cyber Monday) deals are almost upon us. Although I hate crowds, and people, and lines, I really, really love Black Friday deals on beauty products. This is why you can shop online, guys. There is nothing better than telling myself I’m not going to spend money and spending $500 at Sephora but getting $850 of products, so really, I made $350. That’s just good business. Since both in stores and online Black Friday shopping is going to be chaos and every woman for herself, it’s best to be prepared for what exactly to hit up first and what to buy. Don’t wait until the last second when every store is the animal world in Mean Girls. Here are the Black Friday deals on beauty products you need to know about now.
You when you got everything you wanted on Black Friday because you planned ahead:
Sephora
Sephora is by far my favorite place to shop for beauty deals already with their point systems and lax return policy. They are trying to further my love for them because they are starting Black Friday deals on beauty products on November 15th this year. The early deals are exclusively for the app, so make sure you have that downloaded if you don’t already. For Beauty Insiders and Rouge members (which should be all of you, if not, do it now), you get early access to all deals on November 21st, with “regular” customers getting deals long after on Thanksgiving Day/Actual Black Friday. If you choose to go to stores (God help you), Sephora will open on Thanksgiving at 6pm with their deals ready to go. The biggest sale options this year seem to be their $15 & Under deals, where you can stock up on expensive value sets all for under $15.
Ulta
Ulta is also going to open for Black Friday at 6pm Thanksgiving Day (those poor, poor workers). Their official Black Friday ad goes live around November 12th, so keep a lookout so you can plot what to buy. Their typical Black Friday layout is pretty awesome, with 50% off brands like Urban Decay and Tarte, and $30 off styling products like Chi. Stock up on expensive makeup palettes and definitely take advantage of their 5-for-$5 specials on face masks and other little products.
Amazon
Amazon already has some of their Black Friday deals out and ready to go. The best part is you can do all your shopping online without missing out on anything. Every day, Amazon will be adding more and more products to their discount list, so check frequently for deals. This is where you should stock up on your have-to-have basics: acne patches, face wash, lotions, that Aztec face mask everyone is obsessed with, etc. Buy in bulk and save the rest of the year.
Bath and Body Works
Bath and Body Works always has amazing Black Friday deals on beauty products. Things sell out quick so you need to be on it. Remember, they have a great return policy, so buy as much as you can with the deals offered and you can return or exchange any scents or products you don’t like later. They always have sales going on, so expect them just to be amplified and all at once on Black Friday/Cyber Monday. The real key to owning the BBW system is to sign up for their emails now, and get coupons for 20% or $30 off to use in conjunction with their deals on Black Friday. The better coupons are online only, so keep that in mind if you decide to venture out to the stores. Their elusive $8 candle sale (normally $24!) is usually around Black Friday, but expect the large candles to be marked down to at least half off. Stock up now on those and take advantage of any get-nine-body-washes-for-the-price-of-three weird deals they have. Do you need 10 matching body washes/lotion/body spray combos? I’m gonna say duh, but you can also divvy them up as last-minute gifts later. Or you can just hoard bath products and never have to buy body wash again. Your call.
Images: Shutterstock; Giphy
What a time to be fucking alive. This winter has basically kicked my ass with the amount of insane snowstorms we’ve had to endure. I’ve honestly never been so ready to bask in any temperature above 60 degrees and ditch my hibernation clothing for shit that screams “sun’s out, bottles out.” St. Patrick’s Day was clearly a preview of the shit show I’ll be this spring. With the official start of spring happening in literally two days (halle-fucking-lujah), what better time to not only clean out your closet, but update your vanity with some of the best makeup and skincare products 2018 has blessed us with so far? Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty sale has a way of coming in at the best time. Until April 7th, one of our favorite beauty brands will be up to 50 percent off every day for an obvious 21 days. Fucking duh. From Clinique to Smashbox, here’s what to come this week to get your cart started.
Monday, March 19
IT Cosmetics is seriously amazing. If you’ve never used any of the products, let me tell you why you should stock up during the 21 Days of Beauty sale. This finishing powder is the perfect last step to your daily makeup routine as a setting powder or quick touch-up if you’re feeling greasy af. It comes in a translucent shade so it works wonders on everyone to reduce pore size and signs of turning ancient, and leaves your face looking like that of a porcelain doll.
Bye Bye Pores Pressed Anti-Aging Powder
Tuesday, March 20
Regardless of your skin type, Clinique probably has products that will make it look perfect. Whether you’re oily, dry, or something in between, Clinique offers a 3-step facial cleansing kit to brighten dark spots, provide hydration, and reduce annoying breakouts. So for like, half the price during 21 Days of Beauty, you’d be missing out big time if you didn’t take advantage of this.
Clinique 3-Step Introduction Kit For Oilier Skin (Type 3)
Wednesday, March 21
I speak from first-hand experience when I say this Smashbox primer is a fucking miracle worker. If you’re looking for a primer that works without making your foundation look cakey, this will be your best friend. The primer absorbs into your skin immediately, so you can start applying foundation right away. It doesn’t leave any shine or grimy residue, so you can even use it as a setting spray once you’re finished.
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
Thursday, March 22
As we prep for warmer weather, we’ll soon turn away from makeup that could melt off your face, like matte lipsticks. Your summer lip go-to will be a creamy lip gloss that isn’t something out of the 90’s, but still provides full coverage, color, and shine for an added pop to your thotty weekend outfit.
Friday, March 23
The next best thing after a face mask is a face peel—that’s just like, the rules of feminism. For something that doesn’t rip your skin off, these Exuciance peels still removes nasty-ass shit immediately, so you’ll want to stock the fuck up. This six-week supply comes with 25 peels that can be used anywhere, from your face to your neck to your back (to your pus—no, nvm, please do NOT use it there). Anyway, this Exuviance peel helps remove dead skin and wrinkles, and it brightens dark spots. Peel off after just 10 minutes and voilà, bitches.
Exuviance Performance Peel AP25
Saturday, March 24
I run out of makeup wipes like there’s no fucking tomorrow. It’s becoming a pain in the ass, since I’m too fucking lazy to walk down the street and too lazy to go grocery shopping for a DIY remover, so you can see the dilemma I’m in. For shit that actually lasts and works better than your average Neutrogena brand, Philosophy created makeup removing cloths that feel soft af and take off the most stubborn mascaras with a single swipe. And since you can order them online during the 21 Days of Beauty sale, you don’t have to walk down the street or even leave your house.
Philosophy Purity Made Simple One-Step Facial Cleansing Cloths
Sunday, March 25
Nothing ruins a day’s worth of expensive makeup like having an oily T-zone by noon. Talk about a buzzkill. Whether you’re using as a finishing powder or simply touching up while on your lunch break, this sheer powder from Mally Beauty reduces oily spots and fine lines, and leaves your face looking matte and smooth as can be. It stays on from morning to night without making you break out the next day, and even comes with a sponge that looks like a BeautyBlender on crack. Bless.
Mally Beauty Poreless Face Defender
Images: Hanna / Unsplash; Ulta (7)
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