I hoard sunscreen like no one else. And rightfully so. I’m like Goldilocks when it comes to testing sunscreen. We all know SPF is an essential ingredient but some tubes are better fit for specific complexions. Most of the time I experience too many greasy, sticky, heavy duty formulas that make me break out which is what prompted my search for the best drugstore sunscreens for every skin type. If you have dry skin, buying a hydrating lotion or cream with aloe will keep flakiness at bay. Stay away from sprays and gels because those types will dry you out. If you have acne-prone skin, oil-free formulas will help protect you from harmful rays but won’t clog pores. And if you have sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free formulas with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide (physical sunblocks are easier to wear). Perhaps what I love most about sunblock is that you don’t need to empty your wallet to get the protection you need. In fact, I prefer drugstore sunscreens to any high-end alternative. From lotions to sprays, I’ve rounded up my favorite tried-and-true drugstore sunscreens for every common skin type for Glitter Guide. Read the full post here. Do you have a favorite drugstore sunscreen? Sound off in the comments below!
I’ll be the first to tell you that BB cream is probably the most overrated product on the market right now. Sure, I have my list of the best BB creams for every skin type, but now when I see or hear of a new BB cream, it really doesn’t grab my attention like it used to. It’s no longer a cult favorite. But this new BB cream caught my eye when I was on a beauty binge at Ulta. First, this isn’t for your face… it’s for your body. It’s not exactly a self-tanner, but it does contain DHA for that natural faux glow (without the funky smell). At first, I wasn’t sure this BB measured up to my beloved self-tanning tube but now, I prefer it! And here’s why: You can actually see the tinted lotion as you apply it. Used daily, this tinted body moisturizer gradually perfects skin over five days of use using self-adjusting tone technology. The formula hydrates dry, scaly skin (my legs have never looked better), brightens and illuminates, evens out skin tone, firms, and minimizes the appearance of imperfections. Seriously, it’s the best drugstore BB cream for your body and I highly recommend it. Let’s just hope 50 more of these BB body creams don’t pop up any time soon. Sometimes just one amazing product is enough.
My face has a new obsession. Meet the best smelling gel moisturizer that’s equal parts lightweight and moisturizing without the sticky and greasy residue: Olay Fresh Effects {Dew Over!} Gel Moisturizer. Consider it like a splash of 24-hour moisture that sinks in to skin quickly and won’t clog pores thanks to its oil-free formula. And did I mention it smells ah-mazing? The refreshing scent of honeysuckle and antioxidant-rich white tea will make you want to slather it on, from your hairline to your bustline. Whether you’re using it before bed, or getting your daily dose in the morning (no sleep required!) this translucent light green moisturizer instantly wakes me up and soothes any redness. If you can’t tell from the photos above, my jar is already half empty!
Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over Gel Moisturizer, $12.99
This post was sponsored by Olay Fresh Effects through their partnership with POPSUGAR Select. While I was compensated to write a post about Olay Fresh Effects, all opinions are my own.
This blog post is not about finding the best do-it-all drugstore mascara. One tube can only pack so many effective ingredients to achieve your desired effect. Which is why I launched a mini series on the best drugstore mascaras for length, volume and curl. Not too long ago I dished on the best drugstore lengthening mascara. I went on the ultimate mascara haul and picked up five different drugstore makeup brands that promise the best volumizing mascara. Check out my reviews below and the winner!
CoverGirl Bombshell Volume by LashBlast Mascara: I like the double-ended two-step application but the top coal seals lashes for such a dark and intense finish that it makes it difficult to remove at night.
L’Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara: Three words: baby doll lashes. It creates killer volume and thickness in two to three coats. Unfortunately, it’s not a mascara I would recommend for sensitive eyes (I’m a contact lens wearer myself), but it gets the job done.
Maybelline Volum’Express The Rocket Mascara: I read some awesome reviews about this mascara but for some reason, this didn’t do much for my lashes other than create clumps and smudging.
Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Lash Boosting Mascara: Lately I received a couple requests from readers about recommendations for hypoallergenic mascaras and makeup. I thought I’d give this tube a try because to be honest, I had never tried Physicians Formula mascara (only their bronzers). The application is even but I experienced some smudging and flaking.
Revlon Photo Ready 3D Volume Mascara: The brush made it easy to define and separate lashes without clumping. It made my lashes darker and noticeably thicker but it did dry out pretty quickly.
This blog post is not about finding the best do-it-all drugstore mascara. One tube can only pack so many effective ingredients to achieve your desired effect. Which is why I’m launching this mini series on the best drugstore mascaras for length, volume and curl. This inaugural post is all about the best lengthening mascara. I specifically went shopping for tubes that promise longer lashes. Check out the results below!
Revlon Lash Potion by Grow Luscious: It made my lashes darker and noticeably thicker and longer. The triple-groove wand can coat your lashes fully in just one sweep but be prepared for excess formula to smudge on your lash line.
Flower Beauty Zoom-In Ultimate Mascara: This lash comb picks up very little product so applying this mascara took forever. I saw more of an increase in volume than I did in length.
Maybelline Illegal Length Fiber Extensions Mascara: This defined and lengthened my lashes in just one coat but it’s a bit on the flaky side. Compared to the other drugstore mascaras, this seemed more difficult to remove.
L’Oreal Telescopic Shocking Extensions Mascara: The super skinny brush made it easy to reach even the tiniest of my inner corner lashes but it was very flaky and it had a bit of a sticky texture.