We’re elbows deep into summer now- camps, friends, constant motion, and lots of fun. I’m killing this mom thing and the days seem to fly by without even turning on the TV for the girls – something that saved my life when I was nursing Lola in those early months, but now we’re too busy to even think about it. We moved to our current neighborhood almost 2 years ago which, as it turns out, is a hotbed for social activity (for us moms that is.) We have organized playgroups, soccer near the clubhouse on Saturdays, and activities for every holiday. The kids play while the moms hang, it’s like being 15 again where all of your friends are right outside your door. It’s a dream scenario for me since I felt really isolated in those early days after having Harper not knowing anyone else with a newborn, and even worse, not understanding how important it was to have mom buddies in the same boat. So while I’ve been soaking up the social scene with my littles, at the end of the day I’m too beat to even fire up my computer, and when I do I often find myself staring at the keyboard longing for inspiration. And really people, this isn’t easy. You try thinking up almost 10 years worth of ways to say ‘I like this’ or ‘I don’t like this’ which is what I do in a nutshell.
Right now I’m pretty inspired because I feel like I’ve found some of the best skincare, makeup, and haircare to date that I can’t wait to share with you in the coming weeks. I also just got this Jane Iredale order which is always exciting. Being a Makeup Artist, I’m lucky enough to have a discount for lines like Jane which I’ve used regularly over the years. And while they fall short on a few things (mascara and eye shadow primer), for the most part it’s a pretty good line. I think I grabbed some good stuff this last time including sunscreens that keep me protected in two places my daily cream didn’t cover- my hands and lips.
Blush in Flawless and Barely Rose $30: I can tell you these colors are gorgeous- and they are, but a good cheek color is all about how well it blends and stays put which these do beautifully. If a loose mineral powder is more your thing, check out Modern Minerals- they have a generous portion size for just $20 and they also offer 20% off of your first purchase (CLICK HERE for the offer.)
This LipDrink SPF 15 Lip Balm $15 is one of my very fave finds. It’s a sweet citrusy scent and the softest most soothing formula that keeps my lips protected from the sun- something I never gave that much thought to needing but now will probably always have on hand. Even if it’s not this specific one, make sure your next lip balm is armed with SPF.
I don’t use the Liquid Eye Liner $21 with the enclosed applicator because it’s thin and flimsy. Instead I rub a flat liner brush onto the tip of the wand which I then use for tight lining because it doesn’t smudge or transfer. It’s not perfect because it has a slight shine to it, but I make such a thin line it isn’t noticeable. If you’re slowing switching your beauty routine to cleaner options, I always say to first trade out things that go around your lips and eyes- two of the most delicate areas in your body that shouldn’t have toxic chemicals anywhere around them. With my discount it’s worth it, but I’ll probably continue to hunt for a better option down the road.
Driving in the car causes old lady hands- all witchy with sun spots and wrinkles. Because even slight sun exposure accumulates over the years (as evidenced by this fascinating truck driver study) I’m keeping this HandDrink SPF 15 in my car at all times. It has the consistency of a regular lotion without a sunscreen scent so it’s easy to use on my hands and arms every time I drive. I looked everywhere for a good SPF hand lotion with no luck before buying this one, it’s strange that something that seems so common sense is such a difficult find.
I’m a toner person and always will be, I need that completely clean feeling after I wash my face. I like BeautyPrep $30 because it’s gentle and doesn’t dry my skin out the way some do. The label reads like a recipe with organic flower, tea, and fruit extracts and it’s Ecocert. $30 is pretty steep for this 3oz bottle though and were it not for my discount I don’t think it would be a regular buy. I like it fine, but my giant bottle of Witch Hazel that I use with a dab of Tea Tree oil works just as well- and for under $10.
If you’re into seeing what my girls and I are up to I snap a lot- HOBCarissa as well as post mini-reviews and family pics on Instagram @HookedOnBeauty If you know of a liner (or anything else) I should try, find me on IG and let me know. I’m always up for something new.