I started using tubing mascaras because regular mascaras smudged on me, no matter what kind I tried – whether they were from the drugstore or a high-end company.  In this post, I’ll explain why tubing mascara is different from others and a roundup of the best tubing mascaras on the market.

But I’m a bit of a mascara snob, and I don’t think I’ve ever found a mascara that has met every single one of my requirements, and I’ve tried dozens. For years, I struggled to keep my regular mascara from smudging or transferring onto my skin and I couldn’t figure out why. It turns out, I need a water-based mascara instead of an oil based option, which is the difference between tubing mascara vs regular mascara.

10 Best Tubing Mascaras

Tubing mascara is similar to both fiber and curling mascaras in that it works to thicken, lengthen, and curl your lashes, but because the tubing formula actually has polymers instead of fibers that wrap around each individual lash, it doesn’t flake off in your eyes or smudge.

What is Tubing Mascara?

The reason tubing mascara is called “tubing” is because of its unique formula containing polymers that wrap a “tube” around each lash, creating a very even coat. Celebrity makeup artist Gilbert Soliz explains tubing mascara as, “liquid lash extensions.” Regular mascaras require multiple coats, which tend to weigh down your lashes (and also tends to clump if you’re not super patient with application!) so it can also be hard to get a wide-eyed look, given the weight.

Since the tubes from tubing mascara grab each lash and lifts, it creates a lengthening, wide-eyed effect. Tubing mascaras are also more rubbery, so they don’t smudge, hold amazing curl, and are long-wearing.  This might make you think that tubing mascara would be difficult to remove at the end of the day, but the opposite is actually true.

Most tubing mascaras are actually water-soluble, which means they come off with just a little bit of warm water, and gentle pressure. (I use warm water and a washcloth to gently wipe mine off at the same time I remove my makeup with this cleansing balm.) As you wipe away the mascara, you are wiping away the “tubes,” which fall away easily without leaving a runny black trail of mascara on your sink (actually VERY satisfying).

Since traditional mascara is oil-soluble, they require a true eye makeup remover for removal.

They also smudge more easily if you have oily eyelids (which is my issue!). Tubing mascaras are great for people with sensitive skin and eyes, oily lids, or allergy-prone eyes because the tubes do not smear or run on your skin or in your eyes after they’ve set (moi!).

Okay, now that we have some background, let’s chat about various brands of tubing mascaras. Here are the most popular tubing mascaras on the market, including my favorite.

My Top Pick: Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

My #1 pick is the Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara. This mascara is made with moisturizing castor oil, conditioning shea butter and carnauba wax that volumizes and lengthens. It’s cruelty-free and vegan (love that) and the best part…it doesn’t need very many coats to lengthen your lashes (even though I like a bold look and use 3, and I often use this Tarte Opening Act lash primer with mascara). It also never clumps.

This one is my personal favorite because the ingredients are actually good for your lashes and it just looks GOOD.  It’s lightweight and keeps lashes looking natural. I use it almost exclusively now. The wand is also easy to use and applies without clumping, and the formula is neither too wet, nor too dry like others I’ve tried. Tarte did recently release an XL version of this mascara that gives an even bolder look, and I love that one too. I outlined that specific mascara below in this post.

Trish McEvoy High Volume Tubular Mascara Jet Black

This Trish McEvoy High Volume Tubular Mascara is polymer-based mascara, which is water-resistent throughout the day, yet slides off with just warm water when you’re ready to remove it. It’s free of phthalates, sulfates, and gluten, and it is also vegan.  To use this mascara, just start at the base and wiggle the wand in a zigzag motion.  This mascara is popular for many, but for me, it didn’t give me enough volume. If you like a more natural lash look, this a good choice.

Tower 28 MakeWaves Lengthening + Curling Clean Mascara

If you’re looking for a great mascara wand – look no further than the Tower 28 MakeWaves Lengthening + Curling Clean Mascara. It’s flexible and made with three different types of bands that lengthen and define each lash.  The formula is “clean,” cruelty-free and vegan and uses Aquaflex Technology, which is usually used in hairstyling. This technology defines curled hair (or lashes) and gives lasting curl and definition all day.

The vitamin B5 and castor oil help to keep lashes soft, moisturized, and stronger. This is an Allure Best of Beauty winner, so it comes highly recommended. Also, not necessarily important, but the branding is SO cute. It’s on my list to try! If you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara

The Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extension Mascara is my second favorite tubing mascara, and I used it for years before trying the Tarte mascara above. Made with shea butter and castor seed oil, this product is 100% vegan and cruelty free and is available in three different colors.

It’s great for sensitive eyes (made without parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrance) and safe for contact lens wearers, it’s even tested and approved by dermatologists and ophthalmologists.

If you’re one to leave your mascara on overnight sometimes, this mascara won’t leave your eyes irritated the next day. For me, it was too wet for the first few weeks that I used it, making it difficult to build and it also dried out quickly and got clumpy. I felt like it only had a few weeks where the formula was perfect, but I did like it until I found a better option.

MAC Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara

MAC Extended Play Gigablack Lash Mascara is great if you want defined lashes because it has a smudge-proof, carbon-black formula. The petite brush has bristles that are dense and short so they are able to grip every lash, making this formula especially great for lower lashes. Makeup artist Lavonne claims this mascara is an “industry pro standard.”

Because MAC works to lift, coat and separate, however, it isn’t as successful in adding a lot of volume. The formula is just a little too thin.

Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Lengthening Mascara

If you want very long lashes, this Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Lengthening Mascara is a great option. Using film-forming technology, this mascara adds length, lift and definition.  It is vegan and cruelty free. When using, you just want to pull the brush out straight from root to tip.

I do like this but just wasn’t as impressed as I was with Tarte. I felt like the wand was too flimsy, which made it difficult to get the right pressure to apply and lift.

Tarte Tartelette XL Tubing Mascara

Tarte recently launched the updated version of the Tartelette Tubing Mascara: XL tubing mascara. I love this mascara because it has all of the same qualities as the original but with more length and volume. It lasts for 24 hours without flaking (why you’d want it to last that long is beyond me, though!). The tubing XL peptide blend gives extra length, lift, and pigment. If you’re choosing between the original and this, you just have to decide if you like a super bold lash (this one) or if you prefer a more subdued, natural looking lash (original).

Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara

With a “rich pitch black” color and volumizing formula, this Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara is a favorite for many. The tiny bristles grip your lashes and intensify the volume. Jojoba oil then works to keep your lashes soft and shiny.

The only negative is that this mascara creates gummy-like tubes, making it more difficult to remove. The product can dry out in the tube rather quickly, as well.

Caliray Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara

If you’re looking for a mascara to really curl your lashes, this Caliray Come Hell or High Water Volumizing Tubing Mascara is for you. The bristles have wavy brush fibers that allow you to coat and curl every lash. For extra curl, apply starting from the base of your lashes and working your way up. The application AND removal is smooth and easy. I personally haven’t tried this mascara, but reviews say it provides medium volume that’s not feathery.

Essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes! Mascara

Inexpensive ($5 on Amazon!), yet effective, this Essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes! Mascara helps your lashes look thicker, more defined, and longer. It doesn’t flake or smudge and takes just a single coat for application. It does apply wet, though, so it can take a little more time to dry than most.

Bottom Line

If you have the same smudging issues as me, tubing mascara is your answer. It’s been such a game-changer for me, and I absolutely love how easy it is to remove. In fact, when I use a regular mascara (for a special occasion when I want a ton of impact), I’m always annoyed that it smudges after a few hours and then always groan and complain when I have to take it off since it feels like SO MUCH WORK.

If you’re choosing one to try first, I recommend the Tarte Tartelette Mascara (I have a detailed review of the Tartelette mascara linked here). It’s my all time favorite at a great price, and I have a coupon code for you to use ;). If you order directly from Tarte, use code terilyn15 for 15% off your order.

If there’s a tubing mascara that’s not included in this post that I need to try, let me know in the comments!!

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I’m always on the hunt for high-performing products to add to my rotation (and I prefer brands that are clean and safe!). When it comes to foundation, I look for a formula that evens out my skin tone, has staying power, and doesn’t dry out my already dry, aging skin.

I’ve always had dry skin, and as I’ve gotten older, it’s continued to become more and more dry. As we age, it becomes increasingly important not to use products that are too drying because foundation can settle into fine lines, making signs of aging more pronounced. Additionally, a foundation that’s too drying for your skin type can create cakiness and look unnatural. The goal is to find that second-skin feel while providing the coverage you’re looking for. 

So today, I’m sharing my favorite lightweight foundations for mature skin. If you want to see how many of these look when they’re applied, you can see them in this YouTube video about my favorite foundations. It’s embedded below as well.

The Best Lightweight Foundations for Mature Skin

There are so many great options on the market that narrowing them down to one option can feel overwhelming..

I’ve broken it down a bit to help you find the best one for your personal makeup preferences and desired finish. 

Best Lightweight Foundations

• Best Oil Free: Chantecaille Future Skin Gel Foundation
• Best Dewy Finish: Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow Tint
• Best Skin Care–Makeup Hybrid: ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint 
• Best Natural Finish: ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation
• Best Stick Foundation: ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick
• My Top Picks: For a natural finish, The ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion stick is my favorite. For a glowy finish, I’d pick the Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow.

1. Chantecaille Future Skin Gel Foundation

The Future Skin Gel Foundation may sound like it’s designed for oily skin since it’s oil-free, but it’s actually a great option for dry skin.It’s thicker than you might expect but it blends easily.This clean, vegan, cruelty-free, and oil-free formula is also incredibly hydrating, so it’s also a great option for winter months when skin is even dryer.  

It’s on the pricier side, but you don’t need much of this product, so it will last you a while. The one thing I don’t like is that it comes in a little tub so you have to stick your finger or a brush in there. I prefer a pump dispenser for sanitation’s sake. 

It’s made up of 60% water, giving it a super lightweight, gel-like consistency. It contains aloe vera, arnica, rosemary, and green tea for a soothing formula that’s full of antioxidants to protect the skin. It provides medium to full coverage, so if you’re looking for a heavier-duty look that still goes on lightweight, I’d recommend this. I love it for the winter months! I have a full Chantecaille makeup review if you’re interested in testing out any of their other products.

2. ILIA True Rewind Complexion Stick

The Skin Rewind Complexion Stick is ILIA’s newest foundation. I discovered it after I fell in love with Merit’s stick foundation and wanted to compare them. After trying both (see my comparison in this reel), I prefer ILIA to Merit. It blends a little easier than the Merit stick, and since the stick itself is bigger, it’s easier to apply. The coverage is buildable and natural. I wear the shade Willow and love it on my dry, mature skin. I do apply an oil underneath, though, so that it goes on very smoothly.

3. Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow Tint

The Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow Tint has been my go-to lately. I love that it has a very natural-looking finish with just a little bit of glow.  If you struggle with dull skin, you’ll love this. In fact, all of the products from the Tarte Maracuja line are super hydrating, so look for those products if you also have dry skin. It provides medium coverage and gives a glowy, fresh-faced look. This vegan foundation also has strong staying power, which I appreciate, especially during the hot summer months. 

It contains over 10 superfruits, maracuja oil, grapeseed oil, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and illuminating flower extract for added hydration, elasticity, smoothing, and protection from free radicals. It also reflects light to blur the appearance of pores and fine lines for a soft, glowy look. All Tarte products are cruelty-free and made without parabens, mineral oil, phthalates, triclosan, sodium lauryl sulfate, and gluten.

4. ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 

This is the lighest foundation in the bunch. I first tried the ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint in the fall of 2022 at a work conference, and it has become one of my favorites for sheer coverage. It gives a little more coverage than a tinted moisturizer, but it’s still very sheer! ILIA makeup is clean, cruelty-free, and doubles as skincare, which I love. 

I love this product when I’m looking for a no-makeup-glow. The only drawback, in my opinion, is the scent – it has a subtle smell that reminds me of dog food. Yuck. It fades after a couple of minutes, but I wanted to mention it as a heads-up. The product performance is so good that it’s still worth using. It’s hydrating, natural-looking, and stays all day long. You can read more about the coverage in my full review.

The vegan formula contains non-nano zinc oxide SPF 40 and shields against sun damage, pollution, and blue light. It uses hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and plant-based squalane to hydrate, improve skin texture, and minimize the look of pores. The active skincare ingredients make this one of the best lightweight foundations for aging skin. You can see more ILIA products I love in my review of ILIA Makeup.

5. ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation

After I got hooked on the ILIA Serum Skin Tint, I wanted to try their regular foundation and I really like this product. It provides medium coverage and blends very easily. It also has a wide range of shades to get a perfect match. One of my favorite things about this foundation is that it’s buildable, so you can choose your coverage depending on the day. It’s natural-looking, breathable, and extra hydrating for dry skin. I have a separate ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation review, if you’re looking for the full run-down of this product. 

It’s made with active skincare ingredients like niacinamide, allantoin, and aloe to soothe, nourish, and improve skin texture. It gives a lit-from-within look while still looking like you. I wear shade SF2.5 Molokai.

6. Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Oil-Free Foundation 

The Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Oil-Free Foundation is amazing if you’re looking for fuller coverage that still feels lightweight. It’s a cult classic in the makeup artist community and for good reason. It truly gives a “satin glow” effect. It helps improve dullness by illuminating the skin, improves skin texture, and creates a glowy filter to blur imperfections without any cakiness. 

Despite it being a medium-to-full coverage foundation, it still gives a natural and radiant finish that lasts all day. The only downside is this formula isn’t as clean as some of the others on this list. However, if you’re looking for an oil-free foundation that doesn’t feel heavy or dry but still provides full coverage, this is one of the best lightweight foundations for aging skin.

It uses Micro–fil & trade technology which is a patented process that allows the pigments to sit flat on the skin for blendable, natural-looking coverage.

7. Nars Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation

The Nars Light Reflecting foundation is a natural-finish foundation with buildable coverage. I like that it provides a little bit more coverage than some of the sheer options on this list, but it still feels and looks like your skin. 

It’s another one that multitasks as foundation and skincare. It’s made with biomimetic oat, Japanese lilyturf, cacao peptides, and milk thistle. Those ingredients help soothe skin, improve skin clarity, reduce redness, strengthen skin’s barrier, hydrate, and protect against blue light and other environmental stressors. 

It’s vegan, fragrance-free, and made without mineral oil, silicone, talc, alcohol, parabens, SLS, SLES, phthalates, PEG, or gluten. 

8. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Tint

This lightweight liquid foundation is made specifically with dry skin in mind, so it’s a perfect hydrating option for aging skin. The water-gel formula is made with hyaluronic acid for a boost of moisture. It’s oil-free, so it’s great for acne-prone skin since it won’t clog your pores. It gives a natural-looking finish and provides subtle coverage to even out your complexion while still looking natural.

This formula is super long-lasting and doesn’t settle into fine lines. The only drawback is that it’s also not as clean as some of the other foundations on this list. Ingredient list aside, this is one of the best lightweight foundations for aging skin, especially if your skin type is on the drier side. I haven’t tried this one in a very long time to vouch for it, but it does have good reviews online.

9. Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Medium Coverage Foundation 

The Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation is a great lightweight option if you’re looking for medium coverage. This foundation is long-lasting and holds up all day. The formula is made hydrating enough for normal-to-dry skin types but is also suitable for oily skin (but if you have really dry skin like me, I would go for a different product!). I love that it’s infused with skincare ingredients and doesn’t feel too heavy. It creates a solid base without completely hiding your skin, so you’ll still look natural and glowy. 

It’s made with hyaluronic acid, rose complex, and Bix-Activ to hydrate, brighten, and minimize shininess and the look of pores. It’s made without parabens, formaldehyde, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, sulfates SLS & SLES, triclocarban, or triclosan. Plus, it’s vegan and cruelty-free. 

10. IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream Full-Coverage Foundation

This IT Cosmetics CC+ cream has heavier coverage, but it’s buildable, so you can start with a lighter hand. Even though it’s full coverage, it smoothes the skin without looking or feeling too heavy. 

I love this option for aging skin because of the anti-aging serum and extra hydration that it provides. It also has SPF 50, which is a win. Although this product is cruelty-free, the ingredients aren’t as clean as other foundations on this list. If you’re on the hunt for a full-coverage option, this one still looks natural and has active ingredients that are beneficial for aging skin. 

It has hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin E to hydrate, reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, minimize discoloration, brighten, and soothe the skin. 

What are the benefits of a lightweight foundation?

Foundation doesn’t need to feel heavy on your skin. Even lightweight formulas can provide beautiful coverage by blurring imperfections like redness, discoloration, and minor blemishes without feeling heavy or sticky. A good lightweight foundation will give a subtle, healthy glow while still looking like your skin. 

Most lightweight foundations won’t hide blemishes completely like full-coverage foundations do but paired with a solid concealer (this is my favorite concealer), you can create a nice base for the rest of your makeup. Another benefit of a lightweight foundation is that the shades are relatively forgiving, making it easier to transition between seasons. Lightweight foundations are the perfect solution to even out your skin tone while still letting your natural features (like freckles!) shine through. 

Is it better to apply foundation with a brush or sponge?

Whether you use a brush or sponge to apply foundation, it really comes down to personal preference. Lately, I’ve been loving the Tarte Blur Brush. It makes the product so easy to blend right into my skin. I don’t put a ton of product on, and I focus on the center of my face since that’s typically where I need the most coverage. Then, I blend it outwards using circular motions. I find that this technique helps the foundation melt into my skin in a really seamless way, but sponges can also be effective when used correctly. In the past, I’ve used both a brush and a sponge. It just depends on which application technique you like!

Can you just use concealer instead of foundation?

Using foundation helps blend your whole look to create a more seamless finish. If you’re not into foundation, try the Supergoop! Glowscreen SFP 40. It provides barely-there coverage while still creating a nice base for your other products. I use it before applying foundation; it adds the perfect glowy touch without looking greasy. 

If you’re on the hunt for a good concealer, I’m a long-time lover of the Tarte Shape Tape concealers. Their new Shape Tape Radiant Medium Coverage Concealer has made it onto my list of all-time favorites. It’s brightening and concealing, so it’s great for the skin under your eyes or blemishes. I like to use it to conceal dark circles and then I take it up to the corners of my eyes to create a lifted effect. 

What foundation is best for a no-makeup look?

If you’re going for a true no-makeup makeup look, I would pick the Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint. It provides more coverage than tinted moisturizer but still looks like skin. It creates a gorgeous filter-like effect that melts into your face while enhancing your natural features. This is a go-to for me on days when I want to look fresh-faced, but natural. It’s a minimalistic base that adds the perfect healthy glow!

If you’re looking for more “no-makeup” makeup inspiration, check out my makeup routine. It’s a mix of my favorite natural-looking products and it takes less than 10 minutes!

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Right now (and always), I’m favoring natural, light makeup that still looks polished. In the cooler months I go for a slightly heavier eye with more eyeshadow and in the summer months, I tend to prefer cream formulas for blush and bronzer over powders since they look better and hold up more in the humidity.

My Cold Weather Makeup Routine (under 10 minutes!)

1. SUNSCREEN

My current favorite sunscreen is Supergoop Glow Screen. It’s ultra lightweight and leave a radiant finish, but it’s not too shiny or glowy (just enough). It looks perfect under makeup.

I also use the Supergoop Glowscreen Body sunscreen on my arms and legs. I love how easily it blends. I find it hydrating too.

2. CONCEALER

I love the Tarte Radiant Shape Tape Concealer. Tarte has lots of concealers but I prefer the Radiant formula over the regular Tarte Shape Tape since it brightens and conceals in one step. It’s also lighter weight which I appreciate. I wear shade 22N. If you want a heavier concealer, my review of the Tarte Shape Tape Original may be helpful!

3. FOUNDATION

After concealer, I apply foundation. I have a few that I really like so it just depends on what look and type of coverage I want. I have a post with all my favorite foundations for dry skin but I listed the three I’m wearing the most these days.

 On days I’m not doing a full face of makeup, I use this ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint – it’s a tinted moisturizer combined with skincare (read more details in my ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint review.)

ILIA Skin Rewind Foundation Stick – it applies so quickly with medium coverage and looks very natural. I use the ILIA Complexion Brush to blend. (Yes, I’ve tried the Merit foundation stick and prefer the ILIA one since it’s more hydrating. I have a full review of Merit makeup here. And you can see a comparison of the two foundation sticks in this reel) 

ILIA True Skin Serum Foundation – If you prefer a traditional liquid foundation, this is a classic and my favorite of all I’ve tried. It’s very lightweight but has medium coverage that is hydrating and easy to blend. I have a detailed review of this True Skin Foundation here. I usually mix it with this Light Serum Highlighter. it’s so pretty and doesn’t look too shiny but just gives me a healthy glow and then I don’t find that I need a highlighter after my makeup is done. (But if I do want more highlighting, I use the one from this cheek palette.)

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Glow Tint – I love love love this foundation. It provides medium coverage and gives the most natural, radiant glow. It also lasts all day, which most dewy foundations don’t! I wear this the vast majority of days. I use this Tarte Blur Brush to blend it. I wear shade 24N.

4. EYESHADOW

I typically don’t wear a lot of eyeshadow – just one base color and one color for a little bit of definition above my crease (which looks best with my hooded eyes). 

Chantecaille Eyeshadow in Copper – This isn’t really a cream shadow, but I find it applies more like a cream than a powder. I use my finger to apply and blend just below my brow bone and it makes my green eyes pop.

Tarte In Bloom Palette – When I want a powder eyeshadow, I typically wear something from this eyeshadow palette. I love this one because I actually use all of the shades.

5. EYELINER

Next, I tightline my upper lash line — never my lower waterline — since it looks more natural than lining above the lash line and helps make my lashes look thicker. (If you have no clue what I’m talking about, L’Oreal has an easy tightlining tutorial!)

I use this ILIA Clean Gel liner in brown to tightline my upper lash line (just the outer 1/2 to 3/4… not all the way across) to help open my eyes and make my lash line look thicker.If I want a little more pop of color, I’ll use Chantecaille pencil liner instead of black; I have this in Amethyst. It pairs BEAUTIFULLY with the copper eye shadow.

6. EYELASH CURLER & PRIMER

I curl my lashes everyday and I’ve used this Shu Uemera eyelash curler for almost ten years. It never pinches and creates a long-lasting curl.

Most days I wear just mascara, without a primer. If I do want a thicker lash that day for some reason, I love this Tarte Lash Primer. I coat my lashes in primer and then add mascara about 1 minute later after the primer sets just a bit but doesn’t completely dry.

7. MASCARA

Most days I skip primer and use just Tarte Tartelette XL Mascara only since it gives me long, thick lashes and is one step vs. two, and quick and easy is the name of the game in the warmer months! I have a full review of the Tarte Tartelette Mascara if you want to know why it’s my favorite (and I am a very big mascara snob). But, the bottom line is that it never smudges. Ever.

8. BROW GEL AND PENCIL

I fill my brows in no matter what, even if I’m not doing a full face of makeup. Most days I go for The BrowGal Clear Eyebrow Gel with the Glo Brow Pencil since I get a fuller brow that way. If I’m in a hurry, I use the ILIA Brow Gel or Merit Brow 1980 Gel.

9. BRONZER

I’ve gotten on the bronzer train in recent years and always feel better when I use it, particularly around my hairline since I’ve had some hair loss since having my son.

Park Avenue Princess Matte Bronzer – this is very matte and very pigmented and it’s easy to go overboard so tread lightly! But once I learned that, I fell in love with it. I use the shade Light Medium.

Beautycounter Cream Bronzer – Unfortunately, this is unavailable right now but I absolutely love it. It’s also the the easiest bronzer to use. Just apply with your finger and then blend in with a fluffy brush.

If you’d prefer to buy a blush and bronzer combo, I love this Clay Play To-Go Cheek Palete.

10. BLUSH

Depending on my mood, I’ll either use the powder blush or a cream blush.

Precious Gems Amazonian Clay Cheek Palette – This is my favorite option for powder! I use all of the shades and just decide based on how I’m feeling that day.

ILIA Multi Stick – This is a great cream blush option, and you can use it as a lip color as well.

11. PRESSED POWDER

Tarte Shape Tape Glow Powder – If I finish my makeup and I look just a litttttle too glowy, I use this. It still keeps my makeup looking natural and dewy but tones it down just a bit. It also helps set my makeup. I use the shade Starlit.

12. SETTING SPRAY

I’ve been finding that my makeup doesn’t stay on as well as I like so I’ve started using a setting spray almost everyday. I have this Shape Tape Setting Spray and like it but really want to try the Maracuja Setting Spray since I love all things Maracuja (they are more hydrating and glowy).

13. LIPS

I LOVE lipstick and lipgloss. I have tons of different colors and brands, but my current favorites are:

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Products (yes all of the different varieties!) – If you prefer a traditional lipstick, you’ll love the Lipstick Creme. If you like gloss but don’t like the messiness of the gloss, you’ll love the plumping or the juicy lip!

Ravie Beauty in Dahlia – this is the most forgiving color – I don’t even need a mirror to apply! It applies like a balm but looks like a lipstick and is very hydrating and it’s a very natural looking pink.

Charlotte Tilbury Pillowtalk – this is matte, but is very hydrating and the PERFECT nude color.

I also line my lips almost everyday, since I think it helps them look fuller (and we naturally lose lip definition and fullness as we age.) I like this Chantecaille lip liner in the shade Discreet.

This may seem like it takes forever, but it’s really only 5-10 minutes! This reel shows how I apply it all.

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I’ve been using Beautycounter alongside a handful of other brands for a few years now, but as a skincare and makeup junkie, I was always trying new brands so I have some great recommendations for the best replacements for your Beautycounter products.

Fingers crossed we’ll get our Beautycounter favorites back later this year after Beautycounter gets sorted out, but until then, the show must go on for our skin, ha! (Here’s a post about what happened to Beautycounter.) The best brand I’ve found for Beautycounter swaps is Oliveda. I’ve been using their products in place of all of my Beautycounter stuff for over a month now, and I can confidently say they are great alternatives (and even better in some cases) for your favorite Beautycounter products. Oliveda is a European brand that focuses on waterless skincare, so it’s extremely potent and the results are SO wild. I noticed a change in my skin within 72 hours!

I know that it’s a LOT simpler to order from one place vs. multiple retailers, so the majority of the links below are to Oliveda with a few Colleen Rothschild additions. And for the makeup section, almost everything is ILIA since that is currently making up the majority of my makeup routine. If you aren’t familiar with those brands, I have a review of Oliveda here, a Colleen Rothschild review here, and a review of ILIA here.

Oliveda’s website can be a bit confusing, and since the products aren’t organized the same way that Beautycounter organized theirs, it can be hard to know what to order for your skin type! The list below should help, but feel free to fill out this skincare survey and I will email you back with personalized recommendations! You may also notice that a lot of Oliveda products are sold out (things have been going somewhat viral!) but I’m sharing in-stock alerts in this Instagram Broadcast Channel, so be sure to join that for alerts.

I also send out text updates about Oliveda restocks. If you want to join my list, click this link and the hit send when it populates the word “oliveda” in your text composer. I know not everyone checks email or FB and/or IG all day (ahem) so hopefully this helps those of you who haven’t been able to get things when they restock before they sell out again! These are text messages that I send (not the company!) and I won’t blow up your texts unless it’s time sensitive or I think it’s important!

If you’re reading this post on a computer, that link won’t work. Just text OLIVEDA to 336-554-7262 to join.

The Best Replacements for your Beautycounter Products

Countertime

Countertime Cleansing Oil

The Oliveda Arbequina Cleansing Oil (F78) is the best swap for the Beautycounter cleansing oil. It smoothes, refines, and provides lipid defense, but it also removes impurities without destroying your skin’s natural barrier function.

Countertime Essense

The Corrective Facial Tonic (F67) is Oliveda’s toner for dry, aging skin. It works to soothe your skin while also getting rid of dead skin cells. It has hydroxytyrosol and the vitamin C booster camu camu which protect your skin from environmental stressors AND gives your skin a radiant/youthful glow. Nothing will ever be my beloved Countertime Essense, but this is a great alternative.

Countertime Radiance Serum

I wasn’t a huge fan of the Beautycounter Radiance Serum anyway. I tried the Oliveda F59 Corrective Face Serum a few weeks ago and my mind is blown. This is what people call “botox in a bottle”. It’s made with para cress which has a lifting effect similar to botox, but’s clean and safe. It targets fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. I’ve noticed a significant difference in my smile lines since I started using this.

I also just got the Oliveda Green Retinol Face Elixir and I’ve been adding a few drops to my Corrective Face Serum at night. This is a natural retinol made with bakuchiol, which is the same retinol alternative that Beautycounter used. This reduces fine lines and pore size, improves complexion, contracts pigmentation, AND protects against free radicals. If you’re only getting one serum, get the Oliveda F59 Corrective Face Serum, but add the Green Retinol to your wishlist since you can add it to your routine at any time.

Countertime Soft Cream

The best Soft Cream swap is the Oliveda F42 Corrective Face Cream. It’s ideal for dry/aging skin because it has extra hydroxytyrosol in it (a super powerful antioxidant). It’s smoothing, super hydrating, improves elasticity and reduces fine lines. It contains a sun protection factor!

Countertime Supreme Cream

I was worried it would be hard to find anything as great as the Beautycounter Supreme Cream, but the Oliveda F74 Regeneration Intense Face Cream has blown me away. It’s actually more hydrating than the supreme cream. The texture is weird and it takes some getting used to how it’s applied and massaged in, but now I love it.

Countertime Eye Cream

The best swap for the Countertime Eye Cream is the Oliveda F60 Corrective Eye Cream. It’s hydrating, boosts collagen, and gives you a smoothing effect around your eyes. But the real game-changer is when you add a few drops of the Oliveda F64 Corrective Eye Elixir underneath the eye cream. It It has a triple hyaluronic acid structure and a ton of antioxidants, so it hydrates and plumps while also giving your eyes a more lifted, radiant look. You apply a few drops under your eyes, massage it in, and then follow with the Corrective Eye Cream.

Countermatch

Countermatch Foaming Cleanser

For the Countermatch Foaming Cleanser swap, you’ll want to use the Oliveda F71 Corrective Cleansing Gel. It’s made with hydroxytyrosol (this is the superstar of antioxidants, mainly found in olives and olive oil) and gives you a deep clean while counteracting pigmentation. It’s super gentle and very hydrating (I can even use this on my very dry skin). It smells amazing, but the smell is very natural and not super strong. (I’m sensitive to scents and love this.) I can use this morning and night and my very-dry skin isn’t stripped at all.

Countermatch Toner

The Oliveda Activating Facial Toner is the perfect toner for normal or combination skin because it’s non-drying and does not strip your skin, but rather helps restore your skin’s natural balance.

Countermatch Serum

The best recommendation for an alternative for the Countermatch serum is the Oliveda F86 Corrective Vegan Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Hyaluronic serums are great for dry and aging skin because they deeply moisturize and hydrate. This serum also repairs oxidative damage and makes your skin look and feel more elastic/tight. This can be used in the morning and night.

For something a bit more affordable (and almost as good), I’d recommend the Colleen Rothschild Hyaluronic Serum.

Countermatch Adaptive Moisturizer

The most similar in terms of benefits is the Oliveda F05 Anti Oxidant Face Cream but it will feel different. The consistency feels much thicker, but it’s not heavy on the skin. It protects, balances, and hydrates your skin, but it has antioxidants in it too that fight the effects of environmental stressors on your skin. This is lightweight (in terms of hydration, not feel!) and plumping.

Countermatch Eye Cream

The best eye cream option for de-puffing and brightening is the Colleen Rothschild Illuminating Tinted Eye Cream. It contains hyaluronic acid to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and caffeine targets puffiness and water retention. I wouldn’t use this at night though, since it also has coverage that you wouldn’t want to waste. For PM, use the Oliveda F09 Anti-wrinkle Eye Cream. I love the texture and it’s completely non-irritating. It tightens and reduces fine lines around your eye area. You can use it in the AM too, but I just love that Colleen Rothschild Tinted Eye Cream.

Countercontrol

Countercontrol Cleanser

A great cleanser for oily or breakout prone skin is the Oliveda F38 Purifying Cleansing Gel. This gives you a super deep cleanse while also supplying your skin with highly concentrated antioxidants that help prevent signs of aging.

 Countercontrol Toner

The Oliveda F11 Activating Facial Toner is perfect for oily/acne prone skin. It helps clear away impurities while also soothing your skin with chamomile extract. It also refines pores and gives your skin tone a more radiant glow.

Countercontrol Serum

The Oliveda F81 AHA + HT Serum Face is a true hero product. It’s similar to the Overnight Resurfacing Peel in terms of benefits: reduces scarring, improves elasticity, reduces and fights hyperpigmentation, and boosts collagen. It’s great for breakout prone skin because it gentle exfoliates and sloughs off dead skin which can cause build up and breakouts. This is pretty potent though, so I’d only use it once a week to start!

For a daily serum, you’ll want to try the Oliveda F06 Cell Active Serum . This serum helps smooth your skin and reduce pore size, but it mainly reduces dark spots and smoothes wrinkles! What I love most about this is that it has a skin-tightening effect! It’s just a great all-around serum for most skin types.

Countercontrol Spot Treatment

For a spot treatment, you’ll want to use the Oliveda F85 SOS Face Drops. These drops unclog pores, balance sebum production, and reduces acne-causing bacteria.

CounterControl Gel Cream

The Oliveda F07 Anti Aging Face Cream is a great face moisturizer for oily/acne prone skin. It’s lightweight, improves skin elasticity, and overall just balances the skin’s hydration. It’s important to use a moisturizer, especially when you have oily skin since drying out your skin causes it to produce more oil to overcompensate.

Other Favorites

Cleansing Balm

I preferred the Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm anyway. I’ve been using it for years. I have a full review of the CR Cleansing Balm here.

Vitamin C Serum

We all loved the Beautycounter Vitamin C serum for good reason, but I think you’ll love the Oliveda F83 HT + Vitamin C Serum more. It’s made with hydroxytyrosol which is a super powerful antioxidant, and it also contains camu camu, just like Beautycounter. This has 1300% more power than vitamin C alone. It improves fine lines and wrinkles, neutralizes free radicals, and gives you a super radiant complexion.

Overnight Resurfacing Peel

The Oliveda F81 AHA + HT Serum Face is just like the Overnight Resurfacing Peel. It’s a chemical exfoliator that visibly reduces the signs of aging. It also reduces scarring, improves elasticity and firmness, reduces and fights hyperpigmentation, and boosts collagen. Everyone should have this in their skincare routine.

Sunscreen

Supergoop Glowscreen is my favorite face SPF, but it’s not a zinc-based sunscreen. If you want zinc, then the Acure Radically Rejuvenating SPF 30 Day Cream is perfect since it’s a clean option! (This post with non-toxics sunscreens has even more ideas.)

AHA Mask

I actually didn’t love the Beautycounter AHA mask as much as I already liked both the Colleen Rothschild Dial Enzyme Polish and Oliveda Honey Enzyme Face Mask. They’re similar, but the Oliveda Honey Enzyme Face Mask has a warming sensation that I love. It’s also green which is fun! It’s especially beneficial for dry and/or aging skin since you’re paying more for those types of products and you want to get the most out of them. (The women who give me my facials have been telling me for years that I need to use an enzyme mask regularly to see improvements in my fine lines and deeper wrinkles).

Bamboo Face Polish

I haven’t found anything like this, but the Oliveda Olive Core Face Peeling is also a physical exfoliator and it’s a great option even though I love the powder form of the Bamboo Polish.

#3 Balancing Oil

If you were a Balancing Oil fan, then the F25 Neroli Face Oil Serum from Oliveda is a great replacement.

The Clean Deo

All natural deodorants tend to stop working for me after about 12 months, including the Clean Deo. This is actually an issue that women commonly run into if they use natural deodorants, since our body chemistry changes over time. (It’s also why some clean deodorants work for some people but not others. For example, I CANNOT use Native but some people love it.)

Anyway, when one stops working, I switch to a new one. The one that has worked for the longest amount of time is the Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel. I’ve used it for 6 months without stank.

(If you do get stank with a natural deo, use the Bella Skin Probiotic Underarm Toner and it will help a LOT! I use it just once a month or so.)

Body Lotion

Wink Llama All Over Lotion, hands down. Yes, it’s a kids lotion but it’s so good. Tommy and I have both used it for years since it smells just as good as the Beautycounter Body Lotion (although it is a different scent) and it’s more affordable.

Shampoo / conditioner

I’ve been using the Colleen Rothschild Shampoo and Colleen Rothschild Conditioner for over a year now. The Colleen Rothschild hair mask is legit too. I use it in place of my conditioner a few times a week.

Body wash

Primally Pure Citrus Mint Body Wash is a 10/10. So hydrating and smells amazing.

Makeup

Skin Twin Foundation

The ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick is SUCH a good foundation, but if you want a liquid foundation, the ILIA True Skin Foundation is a good option (I have an ILIA foundation review here).

Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer

I wasn’t in love with the Dew Skin tinted moisturizer anyway (it too drying as my skin aged), but I DO love the ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 because it’s more hydrating. I have a full review of the Skin Tint on the blog here.

Cheeky Cream Blush

I’m super sad to loose the Beautycounter blush but the ILIA Multi Stick is just as good.

Cream Bronzer

I hate it because Beautycounter was set to launch new bronzers that I had tried and they are SO GOOD. I haven’t found an alternative yet, but the Tarte Shape Tape Contour works well as bronzer if you use just a touch and blend it out. I also love their Tarte Park Avenue Princess powder bronzer if you want to go that route.

Mascara

As much as I wish I could wear a regular, oil-based mascara, they always smudge on me. So I always shop for tubing mascaras that are water soluble. (Read more about tubing mascaras and how they work here.)

However, if you were a Beautycounter mascara fan and it didn’t smudge on you, you’ll really like the Tarte Maneater mascara. If you need a good tubing mascara recommendation, you can’t beat Tarte’s Tartelette Tubing mascara (read my Tartelette Tubing Mascara review here).

Concealer

The ILIA Concealer is a great (super clean) alternative. My preference is the Tarte Shape Tape Radiant concealer though since I only really use it under my eyes.

Lip Sheer

I just got the Ravie Beauty Effortless Lips in the mail a few weeks ago and they are UNREAL! They apply very much like the Lip Sheer (actually, better). See how each Ravie Beauty shade looks on me in this video. Go for Dahlia for the best everyday shade.

Lip Intense

I like the ILIA Colorblock Lipstick. It’s not quite as good as the Beautycounter lipsticks but it’s similar and a clean option. My all-time favorite lipstick is Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk.

Brow gel

ILIA Brow Gel is very similar to Beautycounter’s brow gel, but it doesn’t dry out as quickly.

Discount Codes

One silver lining to trying new products is that you can typically get a discount on your first order (and I believe all of my codes work on every order).

• Colleen Rothschild – Use code TERILYN20 for 20% off
• Tarte – Use code terilyn15 for 15% off
• Wink – Use code TERI for 15% off
• Primally Pure – Use code TERI for 10% off

Oliveda doesn’t have a promo code, but they do have good perks.

1. A freebie when you take the Oliveda skincare quiz and order 2+ of the recommendations. I have to note that I think their Skin Quiz results can be a little confusing to understand, so if you fill out my skincare survey here, I can help get you personalized recommendations.
2. Free shipping on $50+ orders (ALWAYS!)
3. 365 day product guarantee.

Okay, that’s all I have for now! Like I mentioned above, if you have good recommendations for Beautycounter swaps, please drop them below!

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The post The Best Replacements for your Beautycounter Products appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

Beautycounter has been discontinued! Read about what happened to Beautycounter (and when it might come back) here. In the meantime, I have lots of great recommendations for Beautycounter product swaps linked in this post. Also, be sure to join my email list so you can be the first to know when your Beautycounter favorites come back.

I’ve been really blessed not to experience many issues with my skin during pregnancy, either time. I was worried about the common issue with hormonal acne since I used to have HORRIBLE acne in my mid to late 20s, but the worst I’ve had is an occasional breakout and some dryness. This pregnancy is slightly different from my first because the weather is drier and colder than when I was pregnant with Thomas, so my skin is drier this go round, but still, nothing serious. And I give a LOT of credit to having a good skincare routine in place long before I got pregnant.

Because I’m quite the skincare junkie, and because I’ve talked about my pregnancy a lot on Instagram, I’ve been asked a lot if I changed my skincare routine. I’ve also been asked if I stopped using any products while pregnant, but I’ve kept everything the same except for one or two serums. Since the majority of my skincare products are from Beautycounter, I know they’ve done rigorous research and tested ingredients to ensure their products are safe. And they specifically evaluate how they impact vulnerable populations like pregnant or nursing moms.

Skincare during Pregnancy

When I got pregnant with Thomas 4 years ago, my doctor sent me home with a handout of products and ingredients to stop using. I was thankful I didn’t worry about anything I used! (When I got pregnant with baby #2, I knew there were only a few products I’d need to stop using, including a great retinol oil from Colleen Rothschild).

But, I know getting pregnant and getting that handout is how a lot of women first start to learn about some of the potential negative side effects of products they are using. And doing that research may have led you here. So, I hope this post is helpful so you have more information about what to look for in your skincare products and what you may want to ask your doctor. (If you’re looking for safe beauty products, you can see my makeup routine here.)

Is Beautycounter Pregnancy Safe?

Yes. Every single Beautycounter product is screened for 23 health and environmental endpoints, including reproductive toxicity. Not only that, but Beautycounter is famous for their Never List, which is comprised of 2,800 ingredients questionable or harmful chemicals that they never use as ingredients in their products.

This includes the nearly 1,700 chemicals banned or restricted in personal care products by the European Union, plus additional chemicals screened by Beautycounter and found to be of concern. None of those are allowed in their products. It says a lot of that there are more than 1,000 other ingredients Beautycounter won’t use, considering the EU is pretty stringent. Beautycounter is one of the best clean beauty brands on the market because they are rigorous with testing but the performance is still SO good.

Here’s what Beautycounter has to say:

At Beautycounter, we craft all of our products with safety in mind, especially for those who might be extra vulnerable – like pregnant women and babies. We carefully screen and assess each of our ingredients for 23 distinct, safety endpoints, including reproductive toxicity. That said, as pregnancy affects everyone differently, check with your doctor before beginning the use of any products if pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant.

If you want to do a deep dive on ingredients and their safety during pregnancy, this blog post from To Make a Mommy is very helpful.

The moral of the story is that every pregnancy is different, every doctor is different and every woman’s comfort level with various things in pregnancy is different. And that’s true for everything, not just skincare.

For example, Beautycounter’s Overnight Resurfacing Peel contains glycolic acid and this Beautycounter SOS Spot Treatment contains 2% salicylic acid. I’m comfortable using both of those since I know the rigorous testing that Beautycounter does on the safety of their products, with special consideration for the concentration of ingredients for those who are pregnant.

But, you may not be comfortable using those. And I’m sure there are things you use that I wouldn’t. So again, you have to do what’s right for you! Educate yourself and go with your gut.

Skincare Product Ingredients to Avoid During Pregnancy

The hard thing about pregnancy and data is that it’s hard to do really thorough studies because it’d be an ethical issue to subject certain women to potentially harmful ingredients. That applies to skincare, diet, drinks, everything. For example, some doctors will say a sip of alcohol here and there is fine and others say absolutely don’t touch a drop.

The same applies to skincare and specific ingredients. Some doctors will say certain ingredients are fine, while others take a more conservative approach. However, Beautycounter’s standards INCREDIBLY high, so there’s no guesswork involved. You can feel good about every single product they carry– from body butter to blush and even mascara.

Remember, every pregnancy is different. There may be additional products or ingredients that your doctor tells you to avoid so if you have questions, check with your OBGYN.

Below are ingredients that are typically recommended to be avoided while pregnant, and I’m going to share which Beautycounter products I use instead.

Retin-A, Retinol, and Retinyl Palmitate

All of these are vitamin A derivatives and may lead to birth defects. Most doctors will tell you to stop using those because of the harmful side effects. I used retinol for years before switching to the Overnight Resurfacing Peel came out. It’s a safer alternative to a retinol product with similar results, and it drastically improved my skin texture.

Accutane and Tazorac

Accutane and Tazorac can both cause major birth defects if used while pregnant. Generally doctors will require a pregnancy test before they prescribe Accutane and will often require you to take them throughout your course of Accutane. I believe they do the same for Tazorac too. (I’ve never personally used either.)

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is an ingredient used to brighten skin. It’s often used to address melasma or skin spots. While some say it doesn’t have negative impacts, it is known to have a higher absorption rate than other types of ingredients. That means it could eventually make its way into your blood stream and affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about the risk and benefit for your situation. However, Beautycounter’s All Bright C serum is safe for use during pregnancy. My post about the Beautycounter Vitamin C serum goes into detail on its ingredients and benefits.

Chemical Sunscreens

Most conventional sunscreens use a chemical based sun protection like oxybenzone or avobenzone. These may cause hormone disruption and/or interfere with your baby’s nervous system development. (They also damage coral reef and are banned in Hawaii.)

I switched to non-nano zinc oxide mineral sunscreen years ago and haven’t looked back. This post has lots of non-toxic sunscreen options I like. (Beautycounter’s sunscreen even made the cut in a Women’s Health article about safe sunscreens.)

Laser Treatments 

There are LOTS of opinions on this without a clear answer. Definitely talk to your doctor about your situation.

Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acids

Acne during pregnancy is common. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are the most common treatments for acne. But, those ingredients are controversial when used during pregnancy.

If you do use salicylic acid, most doctors will recommend that you use products no stronger than 2%. (All of Beautycounter’s acne products contain 2% or less.) When applied topically, Benzoyl Peroxide is believed to be safe during pregnancy, but some people still have concerns. So check with your doctor regarding your situation on both ingredients.

If you’re struggling with breakouts, be sure to read this post with more tips for clear skin.

Glycolic Acid

This is yet another highly debated ingredient. While it’s only supposed to penetrate the top layer of skin (i.e., not absorb into your bloodstream or make it to your baby), some medical professionals advise staying away out of an abundance of caution.

Note that this differs from hyaluronic acid, which is safe for pregnancy.

My Favorite Pregnancy Skincare Products

Here’s what I currently use.

Morning skincare routine

Cleanser

Countertime Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil or Countermatch Foaming Face Wash – I like having a non-glass option to keep in the shower, so I sometimes use the Countermatch lotion. Both are hydrating options that don’t leave a heavy film on my face.

Tone/Prep

Mineral Boost Hydrating Essence – this helps balance my skin after cleansing so it’s not too try and helps the products that follow absorb better

Treat

All Bright C Serum – this brightens skin and helps prevent and address melasma, which is common in pregnancy. (Read my review of this Vitamin C Serum here.)

Tripeptide Radiance Serum – this helps tighten and firm skin and improve hydration.

Hydrate

Antioxidant Soft Cream – this day time moisturizer helps prevent fine lines and also provides ample hydration without causing makeup to pill.

Ultra Renewal Eye Cream – the ONLY eye cream I’ve ever liked. Amazing for dark circles, puffiness and fine lines.

Protect

Daily Sheer Defense SPF

Evening Skincare Routine

Cleanser

Countertime Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil or Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm – I LOVE the cleansing balm but it’s too heavy for daytime for me. So I often use this at night, alternating with the Cleansing Oil. Both are very hydrating! (This post explains why I prefer the Colleen Rothschild Cleansing Balm over the Beautycounter Cleansing Balm.)

Tone/Prep

Mineral Boost Hydrating Essence – same prep step as my morning routine

Treat

Tripeptide Radiance Serum – same prep step as my morning routine

Overnight Resurfacing Peel – I use this 2-3 times a week in place of the Tripeptide Serum to help with skin spots, large pores and fine lines. (Read my review of the Overnight Resurfacing Peel here.)

SOS spot treatment & Charcoal Mask (as needed) – I get occasional breakouts around my nose and use these to dry them up.

Hydrate

Countertime Tetrapeptide Supreme Night Cream – I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT THIS. It’s amazing for dry skin! It’s incredibly thick, but absorbs quickly without a greasy finish. A little goes a long way too, so it lasts forever.

No. 9 Oil – On the nights that I’m not using the peel, I use and love this hydrating oil. It’s silky and not greasy. Beautycounter’s Brightening Oil is another great option but I do find it’s a bit heavier than the Colleen Rothschild one.

I hope this helps you figure out a solid pregnancy skincare routine. As with everything I share on my blog about pregnancy, I’m sharing my personal experience. Talk to your doctor, be your own advocate and go with your gut on any decisions you make throughout your pregnancy.

The post Is Beautycounter Pregnancy Safe? appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.

How does the Sephora Sale work?

The Sephora sale has three discount tiers:

• Rouge members (the highest level, spends $1000 a year) get 20% off
• VIB members (spends $350 a year) get 15% off
• Insiders (free to join here) get 10% off

All of the membership levels use the same promo code: TIMETOSAVE at checkout.

AND, all members get 30% off the entire Sephora Collection items, which are their branded products. It’s a great way to save on some beauty basics, like beauty tools, mini palettes, eye makeup, and even affordable skincare.  I particularly like the Sephora brand makeup brushes so I’ll be snagging some new ones.

Be sure to note that each level of membership also has different shopping days. The sale opens to each level as outlined below:

• Rouge members can shop on October 27
• VIB members can shop on October 31
• Insiders can shop on October 31

The sale ends for everyone on November 6.

Things don’t usually sell out, so I’m not too worried about shopping as soon as the sale opens for my level (VIB). I should also note that there are a handful of brands that have better discounts through their own website. Tarte is a great example of this, and I’ve included notes throughout the post (with promo codes) when you can get a better deal somewhere else. If you’re already placing a Sephora order, it might be worth buying Tarte from there, but if you’re only buying Tarte, for example, I’d do it through their own site.

I’ve noted what I already own and love + what I’m eyeing below. If you need recommendations for anything specific, leave a comment and if I have a favorite brand for that type of product, I’ll let you know!

My 2023 Sephora Sale Favorites

I’m sharing my favorite picks from a few different categories below, but if I were only going to get a few things, it would be these:

1. Alpyn Beauty Cold Cream Cleanser
2. Alpyn Beauty Super Peptide Moisturizer
3. Charlotte Tilbury Pillowtalk lipstick
4. ILIA’s Super Serum Skin Tint

Skincare

What I tried & liked:

Tata Harper Rejuvenating Anti-Aging Serum

I got this serum in my Swan Beauty Box last year and really liked it. I have a few anti-aging serums that I alternate among and while I don’t currently own it, it is a great one if you’re in the market.

The Rich Cream with TFC8® Face Moisturizer

This is super pricey, so I would only get it while it’s sale. It’s an anti-aging moisturizer, that is incredibly hydrating without feeling heavy. I still prefer the Beautycounter Supreme Cream or the Alpyn Super Peptide moisturizer (details on that below) over this but I know lots of people find that too thick (that’s what I like about it though). If you need hydration without a heavy formula, you’ll like the Rich Cream.

Alpyn Beauty Super Peptide Moisturizer

I started using this Alpyn moisturizer a few weeks ago and love it. I’ve been using it as my daytime moisturizer since my skin has been drier with the season changing. It’s super hydrating but not too thick (but it’s also not a thin lotion!).

Alpyn Beauty Juneberry & Collagen Hydrating Cold Cream Cleanser

This cleanser is also somewhat new to me and I am REALLY loving it. I think it’s my FAVORITE cream cleanser ever and will be at the top of my Best of Beauty cream cleanser list (which I’m planning to write). It has jojoba beads for a gentle exfoliation and eucalyptus which makes my skin feel so fresh. I’m honesty shocked by how much I like it.

ILIA Lip Wrap Overnight Treatment

This is a very thick lip treatment that I swear has helped plump my lips. I’ve even had people ask if I’ve had filler, but I haven’t (and it’s always after using this). It does slightly exfoliate your lips so if you notice some flaky, just gentle rub your lips with a warm, wet cloth in the morning. I have a full review of ILIA products on the blog. I do have to note, I have a few lip masks and the ILIA one is not the tippy top of my list, although it’s good (and worth buying if you’re already placing a Sephora order). But if I were to only recommend one, it’s this one by Colleen Rothschild. If you use the code TERILYN20, you’ll get 20% off too.

Supergoop! Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40

I bought this illuminating tinted sunscreen earlier this year and have really loved it. It is a chemical sunscreen, which isn’t quite as clean as a mineral sunscreen, but in general, Supergoop does a good job with their ingredients. I really like the glow this gives me underneath my makeup and it absorbs more easily than zinc-based sunscreens. I really like that you can buy it in a mini size since they’re cheaper and usually last a good while anyway.

What I’m eyeing:

Nécessaire The Neck Serum

I’ve heard a few bloggers talk about this on social media, and I want to try it out! It’s a serum that you can wear throughout the day to protect your neck from harmful light exposure and other factors that result in aging skin. I’m great at wearing sunscreen and other protective serums (like this vitamin C serum) on my face, but I tend to forget about my neck when it comes to skincare. (Y’all remember my sunburn from the Masters?) This brand has the prettiest packaging too.

Makeup

What I’ve tried & liked:

Tarte Opening Act Lash Primer

I really like this lash primer. Mascara is one of those products that I’m always hunting for the very best one (I’m picky!), but a lash primer is non-negotiable. It goes under every brand of mascara I use. If you only buy one thing during the sale, make it this. You can also get this directly from Tarte for 15% off with code “terilyn15” so if you’re not a Rouge or VIB member, use my code on Tarte.com instead. Buy their Tartlette mascara and some Maracuja lip stuff while you’re at it and thank me later.

I will note, however, that I recently tried a new lash primer from DIME that I like even better. It’s not included in this sale, and the difference isn’t too significant, so I’d get the Tarte one if you’re already making a Sephora sale purchase. If you decide to try the DIME version instead, make sure to use the code TeriLyn20 for 20% off.

Tarte Tartlette Tubing Mascara

This is my very, VERY favorite mascara of the dozens I’ve tried. I have a full review here on the blog.

ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint

I LOVE this lightweight foundation. It’s almost more like a tinted moisturizer but with slightly more coverage. My skin looks flawless when it’s on, but it also looks like I’m makeup free. It has SPF and makes skin glowy without ever looking greasy or shiny. I find many tinted moisturizers with SPF drying as I’ve gotten closer to 40, but not this Ilia one. I wear shade STA OR6. There’s a photo of me wearing it in this review of Ilia Makeup. (If you have normal or slightly oiler skin, you may like this tinted moisturizer fro Beautycounter better.)

ILIA Limitless Lash Lengthening Mascara

I’ve used this in the past and loved it! It’s VERY natural looking, so if you like a no-makeup look but still want some major length, this is perfect!

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick in Pillow Talk

A cult favorite for good reason. This is the perfect nude pink lipstick. I wore it in our family photos a few weeks ago (and two family photoshoots before that in the past year!) and I wear it for almost all my work photoshoots. It’s beautiful, hydrating and long lasting.

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Plump

I’m obsessed with this lip stuff. I have one in every room of the house, in every purse, in my car and find them in jackets and jeans pockets too. It’s SO pretty, hydrating and you don’t need a mirror to apply. It’s shiny lip a lip gloss but not sticky and more hydrating. You can also get this directly from Tarte for 15% off with code “terilyn15” so again, if you’re not a Rouge or VIB member, use my code on Tarte.com instead.

Tarte Tartelette In Bloom Clay Eyeshadow Palette

It’s rare when I find an eyeshadow palette where I’d use every shade. This one checks that box. Again, if you’re an Insider, you’ll get a better discount from Tarte with code “terilyn15” for 15% off.

NARS Blush

Are you even in your 30s if you didn’t wear the Orgasm blush by NARS? It’s been a while since I used this NARS powder blush but it’s a classic for good reason – it blends easily and lasts all day. Their shades are natural looking and these pallets last FOREVER.

What I’m eyeing:

PRO 8-Piece Face & Eye Brush Set

I am DEFINITELY getting this Sephora Collection makeup brush set. It comes with 8 brushes and I’ve been needing to replace my current brushes, so this is a steal for 30% off.

NARS Laguna Bronzing Cream

I’m getting this cream bronzer after seeing a few other influencers rave about it. I’ve heard it really helps warm up your face with a natural looking glow and I love cream products in the colder months.

GUERLAIN Terracotta Light Healthy Glow Bronzer

This bronzer/blush situation is a cult favorite, and I’m dying to try it even though I already have three bronzers. The multi-shade palette would be easier to blend than a single-shade bronzer and look very natural for an all-over glow.

Armani Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Flawless Oil-Free Foundation

I love the Beautycounter and Chantecaille foundations, but I want one that is more full coverage. I got a sample of this in a Swan Box last year and really liked it! This one is also a cult favorite among beauty influencers. It comes in a mini size which makes the decision to buy it so much easier.

Dior Forever Matte Foundation SPF 15

Another foundation I’m considering. This price point is a little better than the foundation above but I’m hesitating because it’s matte and I tend to like a little glowiness.

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Bronzing Drops with Peptides

I keep hearing about these! You just add them on top of foundation where you’d typically add bronzer. The color of the product looks very dark, but I’ve read it actually works with every skin tone.

Line It Up Clean 24-Hr Gel Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner 

I want to try this waterproof liner to see if it’s actually smudge proof (ALL liners come off on me!!). The one I’ve found that stays the best is Chantecaille but it’s not on sale.

Westman Atelier Face Trace Cream Contour

I thought I was getting this bronzer with a set I bought from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale two years ago, but it didn’t come with it! I’ve wanted to try this for months since I love the other Westman Atelier products I have. They’re so creamy and blend in beautifully without disappearing. Make sure your skin is well hydrated whenever you use Westman products (it makes them look SO good).

Buxom Full-On Plumping Lip Polish Gloss

I love the Buxom lip stain, so I want to try this too!

Rouge Dior Forever Liquid Transfer-Proof Lipstick

Transfer free but NOT drying is always a tricky combo but I’m excited to try this! Those reviews are GOOD.

Hair and Body

What I already own and LOVE:

Dyson Airwrap

If you want to transform your hair game, you need the Dyson Airwrap. I LOVE mine (here’s how I use it). And since Sephora has a great return policy, there’s no need to panic if you don’t love it as much as I do.

T3 Curl ID 1.25” Curling Iron

My favorite curling iron! When I finally upgraded my curling iron from the $30 one I had, I regretted not doing it sooner. (Read my review of T3 curling irons here on the blog.)

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer

Best hairdryer ever. The end. My review here. I don’t think you need this AND the Airwrap though. The Airwrap has a hair dryer attachment.

Double Pint Large Round Ceramic Brush

I love a big round brush for sleek blow outs when my hair is shoulder length or shorter.

Goop G.Tox Himalayan Salt Scalp Scrub Shampoo

I use this scalp scrub once a week to help get any leftover product buildup out of my hair. It smells great and makes my hair feel so clean. If you use dry shampoo during the week, you definitely want to scrub your scalp at least once a week to get it clean. I love love love this and always get it during the Sephora Sale.

Nécessaire The Body Serum

I’m including this because it has such a cult following, but I was underwhelmed when I bought it during the sale last year. What’s the hype??

What I’m eyeing:

Nécessaire The Body Wash

I hear amazing things about this, so it’s time to finally buy.

COLOR WOW Xtra Large Bombshell Volumizer

I keep seeing people talking about this on social media and I’m dying to try it. My hair has been flat ever since I started keeping it closer to my true color (vs. very blond highlights), and I haven’t found a volumizer I absolutely LOVE.

Did I miss anything? I’d love to know if you have a Sephora favorite we should know about in the comments!

My Sephora Sale Favorites

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Every year, Beautycounter rolls out exclusive gift sets for the holidays, and every year, I’m SO excited to try everything, and I gift them as well. I also like to break some of these sets up into smaller gift; Ttere are a few that make the perfect stocking stuffers if you split them up or make cute teacher gifts paired with a coffee gift card.

This year, the Clean Eau De Parfum Duo set is my TOP pick. Beautycounter has never launched fragrance before, so this is VERY exciting, and you can read more about it below. I also love the Hand Cream Trio and the Polish & Plump Facial Trio. I fully anticipate that they will both sell out based on the holiday products that sold out first in the last few years.

As a Beautycounter consultant, I got to shop and try the products early and I’m sharing a few of my favorites!

Ready to see what’s included this year? Let’s dive in!

Beautycounter Holiday Gift Guide

Clean Eau De Parfum Duo

Beautycounter has finally launched PERFUME! Beautycounter has been working on creating a scent category for years, and this perfume duo is the very first launch. Both scents were created in partnership with a fine fragrance house, and they’re EWG verified, safe for even the most sensitive skin, and even I don’t react to them (and I react to many clean perfumes, including Phlur).

There are two scents in this duo: Sun Spill and Miles Away. Sun Spill is an uplifting citrusy floral scent and Miles away is an herbal green scent. Do NOT miss this duo!

Mini Beyond Gloss Vault

Beautycounter’s Beyond Gloss is a great gloss when you’re on the go since it applies perfectly without a mirror and a little goes a long way. This set includes four NEW colors: Daisy Shimmer (a sheer opalescent shimmer), Toffee Shimmer (a bronze gold shimmer), Petunia (a true rose color), and Posy (a cool plum shade). They’re mini sizes, and even the mini will last you months. They’re perfect for your purse, clutch, or car. This is one of those sets that I’ll split up and gift individually! I’ll give them to a few friends of mine with a card. Or give the full set to a beauty junkie who’ll be excited to try all the colors. (This is a great option for nieces!)

They’re all great for fall and winter, and the shades are designed to look good on all skin tones.

Lashes & Lips Makeup Duo

Next up is the Lashes & Lips Makeup Duo which includes Beautycounter’s famous a Thing Big All-in-One Mascara and their Sheer Genius Conditioning Lipstick in a brand new shade. This set also comes with a reusable makeup bag! Reusable Makeup Bag. While I don’t personally use this mascara, it does have a loyal following. (All oil-soluble mascaras transfer onto my skin so I can’t use them; I only use tubing mascaras, which I explained in this post.) The Sheer Genius Conditioning Lipstick is another cult favorite. It’s like a blend of lipstick and gloss. And this brand new shade, Transformer, was made to enhance the natural color of your lips.

This set would be a perfect gift for a teenager who’s just starting to wear makeup. Or a beauty junkie who would want some minis to keep in her purse.

Hidden Gem Makeup Set

I was really excited when I saw that the Hidden Gem Makeup Set included my very favorite cream blush + Beautycounter’s famous priming serum. While I really like the priming serum, the blush is the part I’m most jazzed about. When I tell you it lasts forever, I mean forEVER. These have the best staying power, natural finish, and can also be used on your lips in a pinch. Their cream blushes blend the easiest of any brand I’ve tried (and I’ve tried a lot) so it’s a good way to venture into cream products.

The priming serum is a favorite of many Beautycounter junkies because it is a makeup + skincare combo. Not only does it improve the wear of your foundation, but it also makes your skin look plump and smooth all day.

Main Squeeze Lip Jellies

Eeekkk the Lip Jellies are BACK! If you’re new here, these have a cult following and they’re my favorite minis ever! These baby lip glosses are ultra-glossy and have the perfect sweet scent/taste. They aren’t sticky and are so fun to apply since they have a bit of nostalgia to them. They don’t have as much as the glosses but give more of a tinted sheen.

This set comes with 5 shades: confetti (an iridescent shimmer), Oat Latte (a milky peach), Sugarplum (a sheer berry), Lollipop (a sheer, bright pink/red shimmer), and a returning favorite, Sorbet.

While this set would be a perfect one to split up into smaller gifts, I know I’m going to end up keeping them all for myself. I also have to mention that the packaging is SO fun for this set too.

Shimmer & Glow Makeup Duo

I am really excited about the Shimmer & Glow Makeup Duo set. It includes Beautycounter’s talc-free highlight powder in a brand new shade Cava (shimmering rose bronze) along with the fan favorite cream eyeshadow in a new shade, Blaze — a shimmering pink champagne that draws light to your lids. Both of these products are the perfect addition to a makeup junkie’s arsenal, especially for fun holiday festivities.
(Here are some cocktail dresses for holiday parties!)

Brighter Days Skin-Care Set

If you’re a Vitamin C fanatic (like me), then you will LOVE the Brighter Days set. This includes both a mini of the All Bright C serum and a mini of the our All Bright Triple Acid AHA Toner. The toner is designed to refine your pores and make your skin glow (it’s incredibly effective), and the All Bright C serum is the best daily vitamin C serum I’ve tried. It’s helped reduce my dark sun spots SO much (I shared a before and after here). You could easily gift this set to anyone on your list who loves skincare, but I’m keeping it for myself so that I can have travel sizes of my favorite products.

Countermatch Carry-On Set

The Countermatch Carry-On Set is by far the most requested set we’ve had in a while. People who use and love Countermatch products have been begging for a travel-sized set since Countertime got one last year. I’m so happy they made this! Not only is it great for Countermatch lovers but it’s the perfect set to gift to a teen who’s just starting a skincare routine! Countermatch products are designed for normal or combination skin and use gentle ingredients to cleanse, hydrate, and balance.

Keep Cool Radiance Duo

The Keep Cool Radiance Duo set is a fun option for a skincare junkie. This set has a full-size bottle of the best-selling Countertime Tripeptide Radiance Serum which is what I use in my skincare routine. It helps improve the skin barrier function, increases skin radiance, and decreases the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. I love how gentle it is too (it’s the perfect serum to alternate with your more aggressive retinol products). Then, you also get these brand new Refreshing Facial Globes to help depuff and improve absorption. They work best when they’re chilled, so just put them in the refrigerator.

Sets like this are super fun to give because I don’t think anyone on my list would buy those Facial Globes, which makes them such a fun and “extra” treat. It’s always fun to receive things like this and get to try them without having to buy them for yourself.

Polish & Plump Facial Trio

The Polish & Plump Facial Trio is a powerhouse set. It would make 3 really good gifts or one GREAT gift for one lucky friend or family member. This set includes a mini Counter+ Lotus Glow Cleansing Balm, mini Reflect Effect AHA Smoothing Facial Mask, and a mini Mighty Plump Ceramide Water Cream. All THREE of these products are best sellers and worth buying on their own, so to get them as minis, all together, is just super fun. I could rave about all three separately for paragraphs, but I’ll just let you read my full blog reviews of each (linked above).

Long story short, if you only get one set, it should be this one.

Goodnight & Glow Duo

The next set is the Goodnight & Glow duo which comes with a Mini Overnight Resurfacing Peel and a mini Reflect Effect Overnight Resurfacing Body Peel. The Overnight Resurfacing Peel is one of the best products Beautycounter makes and truly restores + renews your skin. It’s a safer alternative retinol and what I’ve been using since I got pregnant. The Body Peel is the same thing, but for your body instead of your face. It’s a GREAT option for anyone with Keratosis pilaris.

Sugar & Silk Body Set

The Sugar & Silk Body Set is one of the easiest sets to gift because it’s not skin-type specific! Everyone loves a luxurious bath set, and this one comes with a body polish (my all time favorite body scrub) and a body oil (which is super luxe and smells amazing).

Good Scents Hand Cream Trio

Every single year this limited edition Good Scents Hand Trio set sells out. The hand cream trio is not only an easy gift idea, but the packaging looks so high-end and fancy. AND this set is pretty affordable too! I tend to split these up and gift them along with a small coffee gift card.

Triple Quench Body Butter Set

Brand new to the gifting lineup this year is the Triple Quench Body Butter Set. Similarly to the Hand Crean Trio, I bet this will sell out! Body butter makes a perfect gift for your hair stylist, your nail tech, your mail lady, etc. This is limited edition, so you have to get it now!

Gifting tips

I mentioned above that I like to split these sets up to create smaller gifts. Things like the hand cream or body butter go well with a Starbucks gift card, and the lip gloss is great with a sweet note mailed to friend! There are lots of ways to make these sets smaller, but then again, who doesn’t love a full set of fun skincare goodies? :).

And no shame at all if you keep them for yourself. In fact, maybe go ahead and order 2 so you can keep one ;).

Shopping tips

1. When I first joined Beautycounter as a consultant, I didn’t really believe when they said holiday products would sell out. But… after five holiday seasons with the company, I now know that they do. So if there is anything you KNOW you want, shop sooner than later.

2. I would also be sure to add Band of Beauty to your cart before checking out — It’s kind of like Sephora rewards… but better. You get free shipping on $100+ orders for a year and you’ll also get 10% product credit back on every order (it adds up fast!). You’ll get a free gift with your first order if you spend $50.

3. Be sure to select TeriLyn Adams as your consultant at checkout so I can help with any order questions that come up! I so appreciate it!

4.  Make sure you’re on my newsletter to updates on any promos launching during the holidays, e.g. Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals.

5. You have 60 days to make returns, no questions asked. So, if you aren’t sure something will work for you, no worries! They even cover return shipping.

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For years, I tried dozens of different makeup brands and products (spending hundreds of dollars in the process), but never had a makeup routine I liked. So, of course, I would spend more money on yet another product, hoping to find the right stuff. My goal was to look natural and put together without looking overdone or “too” made-up. My other requirement was that my makeup routine had to be easy.

It took a WHILE, but I finally discovered a tinted moisturizer I liked (from an Instagram follower!) from Beautycounter. I was hooked, so I started trying the rest of their makeup and it fit all my requirements, plus it was cleaner beauty! Actually, I loved it so much that I joined as a consultant, since I was already telling everyone I knew about it (and the discount was pretty enticing).

When I was first trying Beautycounter makeup, I ordered one product at a time and built up a makeup routine after collecting products. But now, they sell a makeup starter set called Flawless In Five with six makeup essentials at a discounted price, that’s designed to be applied in five minutes (hence the name).

1. Tinted Moisturizer or Foundation
2. Concealer
3. Brow Gel
4. Mascara
5. Cream Blush
6. Lipgloss

Today I’m sharing my review of this set, along with some finished makeup shots. Let’s jump in!

Beautycounter Flawless In Five

The name “Flawless in Five” comes from the idea that you only need these few products and five minutes for a flawless, natural, makeup look. And as a mom who also runs her own business, five minutes is about all I have for doing my makeup! What’s included:

1. Tinted Moisturizer or Foundation
2. Concealer
3. Brow Gel
4. Mascara
5. Cream Blush
6. Lipgloss

The set costs $171, but if you were to purchase the 6 products individually, it would cost you $214. The savings are SO good with this set that it’s a total no brainer. I personally don’t buy the set anymore and purchase things a la carte, but if you need a makeup routine and a product overhaul, this is a GREAT way to get started.

Now that you know the basics, let’s dive into each product that’s included.

What’s included in the Flawless In Five set?

Skin Twin Hydrating Foundation OR Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer

You have two options to choose from when it comes to your base. The first is full coverage: Skin Twin Foundation, and the second is sheer coverage: Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer.

Skin Twin Hydrating Foundation

Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer

Skin Twin Hydrating Foundation

The Skin Twin Foundation is a full-coverage foundation that comes in 27 shades. I love how smooth this goes on, and how long it lasts. I find that this is lightweight enough to feel great all day (not cakey or greasy), but it looks good and lasts all day as well.

The option of 27 shades makes chances of finding your perfect color match pretty good. I recommend using the Beautycounter Shade Finder to find your perfect color match.

Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer

The Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer was my gateway product to Beautycounter. It’s the best tinted moisturizer I’ve ever used. The coverage is sheer, but gives you just the right amount of “something” to build your makeup look on top of. It also contains SPF, which is a huge win in my book! When I was a little younger, I preferred to wear just this as my base. Now I like a little more coverage.

The Dew Skin only comes in 8 shades, but that’s because the color is sheer enough that it’s really forgiving. It blends in nicely, so you don’t see a line on your neck. As long as your near your skin-tone in the shade you pick, you’ll likely be just fine.

Skin Twin Creamy Concealer

Next up, you’ll choose your concealer shade. There are 20 shades, so you’re sure to find a perfect match with the Shade Finder. This concealer is SO creamy and breathable. It goes on super smooth and lightweight, but still provides medium to full coverage. It also contains powerhouse ingredients like knotgrass extract which helps the skin look firmer over time (like skincare and makeup combined!).

I love that it’s lightweight and breathable, but also easy to build for more coverage if needed.

Brilliant Brow Gel

Filling in my eyebrows was BRAND NEW to me a few years ago, and if you’re also new to it, you’ll feel a little funny at first. The Brilliant Brow Gel is essentially mascara for your eyebrows. It’s a weird feeling to see your eyebrows filled in at first, but it really does help your eyes pop since it frames your face, especially since, as we age, our brows get thinner and lighter.

You brush it through your brows (starting from the middle of your brow, not the part nearest to your nose, for more even application), and that’s it. The gel holds your brows in place and the color helps tint them just a little. You can choose between 4 shades, so I’d recommend going for something similar to your hair color. I prefer darker, but that’s preference!

Cheeky Clean Cream Blush

I absolutely love this cream blush. It gives a beautiful flush of color, blends easily and is hydrating and long lasting. To apply, tap your finger into the blush, and then tap onto the apples of your cheeks up to your temples. I keep one of these in my purse!

You have 8 shade options, and Beautycounter will recommend a color for you based on the foundation or tinted moisturizer shade you choose. My personal favorites are chai and paloma.

Think Big All-In-One Mascara

The mascara has RAVE reviews. It’s dark, bold, lengthening, and has a TON of impact, which I love in a mascara. It’s oil-soluble, like most mascaras, so it comes off with most eye makeup removers. I don’t like it since it smudges on me. However, all oil-soluble mascaras smudge on me, so I can only wear tubing mascaras. You can see how it looks compared to another tubing mascara in this review.

Beyond Gloss

Lastly, you get to choose a lipgloss shade. I’m a BIG fan of lip color for finishing off a makeup look, and the Beautycounter gloss is hard to beat. It’s not sticky (at all), smells nice, and the color options are great! You can choose from 14 shades, and Beautycounter will recommend one based on your foundation choice. (Beautycounter also has great lipsticks!)

Is the Beautycounter Flawless In Five Worth It?

Maybe. It depends on what type of makeup person you are and what you need.

If you want just one or two items, I’d buy them separately and not in the set.

However, if you don’t want to think about a complete makeup routine and don’t enjoy shopping for makeup, then yes! It’s great since you’ll get all the basics you need for a simple and pretty makeup routine. However, some of the products included are not my personal favorites.

• Mascara – I personally don’t like this but so many love it. How to know if you’ll love it? If most mascara smudges on you, I think the Beautycounter mascara will probably smudge on you. (You’ll likely have more success with a tubing mascara).
• Foundation – This was actually the first foundation I ever liked and I do still use and like it, years later. I have a lot of foundations I like and this is one in my regular rotation, but it’s not my TOP pick of all foundations.
• Tinted Moisturizer – I loved Dew Skin for years, but as I’m nearing 40, I prefer ILIA Skin Tint since it’s more hydrating.
• Concealer – I loved this for year, but now prefer a bit more coverage that Tarte Shape Tape Creamy Concealer provides. If you want light to medium coverage that’s easy to blend, you’ll like this.

I am a big of a makeup junkie and am constantly trying different brands and formulas. If that sounds terrible to you, the Beautycounter ones are absolutely solid and you’ll like them. Well, except maybe the mascara. I’ve warned you.

Buy the Flawless in Five set here.

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If you’ve been reading my blog for a while, you know I LOVE Beautycounter. I now own almost all of their products, even though I was hesitant to try their skincare at first. But, I got hooked on their Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer and that led me down a path of slowing transitioning nearly all my makeup, hair and body care products to safer options. And yes, I finally switched my skincare to Beautycounter too.

One of the things I love most about Beautycounter is that they’re transparent about what ingredients they use in all of their products. They’re also transparent about what ingredients they will NEVER use, even if nearly every other brand in the market does. But, with the latest investment by the Carlyle Group and Beautycounter’s $1 billion valuation, the beauty industry is sure to take note of what consumers want — and that’s better ingredients and more transparency.

I switched to Beautycounter and other safe brands (like Primally Pure and Branch Basics) once I learned what was in the products I was using (including high-end brands and some drugstore ones). I truly had no idea the harmful things I was putting on my body every single day. And I consider myself very well versed on making healthy choices!

Beautycounter Never List

Beautycounter has a “Never List” which is comprised of 2,800 ingredients questionable or harmful chemicals that they never use as ingredients in their products.

This includes the nearly 1,700 chemicals banned or restricted in personal care products by the European Union, plus additional chemicals screened by Beautycounter and found to be of concern. It says a lot of that there are more than 1,000 other ingredients Beautycounter won’t use.

Sadly, most of the ingredients on the Never List are are allowed and very regularly used in the United States. The EU is much more stringent than the US when it comes to personal care product safety. And Beautycounter takes it a step further and bans even more ingredients than the EU.

Using the Never List to evaluate your current skincare products is a great place to start if you want to start to use safer beauty products. Some people switch once they learn what’s actually in the brands they thought were safe (even though recommended by their dermatologist). Others switch when they become pregnant and realize that their products aren’t safe for their baby. Others switch because they want to live a healthy lifestyle and realize that healthy living goes beyond food and exercise. Skin care products can impact health too!

Honestly, some of this information is TERRIFYING and you can’t unlearn it. It’s hard to believe that this is even allowed. But Beautycounter is working to change it! It can be particularly challenging since many brands try to portray their products as safe products with clever packaging and marketing. But if you look closer, they’re not great options.

Below are some of the most commonly found ingredients in personal care products that Beautycounter will NEVER put into their products. I also included an explanation of what the ingredient is and why Beautycounter won’t use it.

Benzalkonium Chloride

This disinfectant is used as a preservative and has been associated with severe skin, eye, and respiratory irritation and allergies. It’s found in many sunscreens , moisturizers and other creams.

Butylated hydroxyAnisole and Butylated Hydroxytoluene

These are synthetic antioxidants used purely to extend shelf life. But they are likely carcinogens and hormone disruptors. They may also cause liver damage.

These are often found in lipsticks, moisturizers, diaper creams, and other cosmetics. I switched to Beautycounter lipsticks and lip glosses and LOVE them.

Coal tar and other coal tar ingredients

This is a byproduct of coal processing that is a known carcinogen. It is used as a colorant and an anti-dandruff agent and is found in hair dye and shampoo.

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)

This chemical is a binding agent that is added to cosmetics to improve stability. Often used as a treatment for poisoning, EDTA may be toxic to organs and is found in hair coloring and moisturizers.

Ethanolamines (MEA/DEA/TEA)

A preservative and surfactant linked to allergies, skin toxicity, hormone disruption, and inhibited fetal brain development. Because of its ability to decrease surface tension, this chemical is used in hair dyes, mascara, foundation, fragrances, sunscreens, dry-cleaning solvents, soaps, paint, and pharmaceuticals.

Formaldehyde

Used as a preservative in cosmetics, this known carcinogen is also linked to asthma, neurotoxicity, and developmental toxicity.

Formaldehyde is often found in shampoo, body wash, bubble bath and other shower products.

Hydroquinone

This skin-lightening chemical inhibits the production of melanin. And is linked to cancer, organ toxicity, and skin irritation. It’s predominantly found in skin-lightening creams that aim to reduce the coloring from freckles, age spots, chloasma, and melasma. (Beautycounter’s Overnight Peel and Vitamin C serum can help with these skin concerns without Hydroquinone.)

Methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone

These chemical preservatives are among the most common irritants, sensitizers, and causes of contact skin allergies.

These chemicals are often found in liquid cosmetics, hair color, body wash, lotion, sunscreen, mascara, shaving cream, baby lotion, baby shampoo, hairspray, makeup remover, liquid soaps, and detergents.

Oxybenzone

This sunscreen agent is used as an ultraviolet light absorber. Oxybenzone is linked to irritation, sensitization, and allergies, and possible hormone disruption. It has also been known to be hazardous to the oceanic environment including coral reefs. The state of Hawaii has banned the use of sunscreen products containing oxybenzone starting in 2021.

This product is found in sunscreen, hair sprays, cosmetic products, and moisturizers. I use Beautycounter’s lotion and stick sunscreen for my body and CounterSun Daily Sheer or Dew Skin for my face SPF, every single day. They both use non-nano zinc, a mineral-based physical sunscreen, instead of oxybenzone.

Parabens (methyl-, isobutyl-, propyl- and others)

Parabens are artificial preservatives in cosmetic and body care products. And commonly used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. What’s particularly concerning is that parabens are endocrine (or hormone) disruptors. Which may alter important hormone mechanisms in our bodies. For instance, parabens have been shown to mimic estrogen and when our bodies detect too much estrogen, this can trigger an increase in breast cell division. And growth of tumors directly linking it to breast cancer and reproductive issues.

Parabens can be found in shampoos, face cleansers, body wash, body lotions, and foundations. This is a VERY common ingredient. But it is, thankfully, becoming easier to find paraben-free products.

Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP, and others)

This industrial chemical is used to make products more pliable or to make fragrances stick to skin. Phthalates disrupt the endocrine system and may cause birth defects.

This chemical is found in synthetic fragrances like perfumes, nail polish, hairspray, soaps, aftershave lotion, and plastic materials.

Polyethylene glycol (PEG compounds)

PEGs are petroleum-derived compounds widely used in cosmetics as thickeners, solvents, softeners, and moisture-carriers. Depending on manufacturing processes, PEGs may be contaminated with measurable amounts of carcinogens that are linked to cancer.

PEGs are found in creams, sunscreen, and shampoo. Yuck factor PEGs are made from the main ingredient (ethylene glycol (ethane-1,2-diol)) in antifreeze. Yuck.

Retinyl palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate)

Retinyl palmitate is an ingredient composed of palmitic acid and retinol (Vitamin A). Data from an FDA study indicate that retinyl palmitate, when applied to the skin in the presence of sunlight, may result in adverse health consequences like lesions and photosensitization. FDA, Norwegian and German health agencies have raised a concern that daily skin application of vitamin A creams may contribute to excessive vitamin A intake for pregnant women and other populations.

Retinyl palmitate is often found in anti-aging creams, e.g. retin-A and retinol products. I stopped using my retinol product and replaced it with the Overnight Resurfacing Peel.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS and SLES)

SLS and SLES are surfactants that can cause skin irritation or trigger allergies related to eyes, skin, mouth, and lungs. SLES is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of a petrochemical process called ethoxylation, which is used to process other chemicals in order to make them less harsh.

SLS and SLES are found in shampoo, body wash, bubble bath, conditioner, hair dye, dandruff treatment, and styling gel. They are also found in shaving cream, lip balm, hand sanitizer, nail treatments, makeup remover, foundation, facial cleansers, exfoliants, and liquid hand soap.

Synthetic flavor or fragrance

These engineered or lab-made scents or flavoring agents may contain any combination of 3,000-plus stock chemical ingredients, including hormone disruptors and allergens. So when people say they’re allergic to “fragrance”, it’s not just scent – they’re allergic to something that is labeled “fragrance” but you don’t actually know what that is.

Fragrance formulas are protected under federal law’s classification of trade secrets and therefore can remain undisclosed. That means we have no way of knowing what other chemicals or ingredients are used in these flavors or fragrances. I use Branch Basics for this reason. It’s so hard to find a fragrance-free AND paraben free laundry detergent!

Found in: all types of cosmetics, laundry detergents, body products, hair products, EVERYTHING. You may be able to find paraben-free products. But it’s very hard to find truly fragrance-free products that are also paraben free. If you start with just one switch, look for products that don’t include “fragrance” or “parfum” in their ingredient list.

Toluene

This volatile petrochemical solvent is extremely toxic to the immune system and can cause birth defects. And irritation or damage to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. It’s also a highly flammable agent.

Toluene is found in nail polish, nail treatment, and hair dyes. I use Dazzle Dry for at-home manicures.

Triclosan and Triclocarban

Antimicrobial pesticides are toxic to the aquatic environment and may also impact the human reproductive systems. It’s found in liquid soaps, soap bars, and toothpaste. I use Beautycounter Body Wash and the Charcoal Bar in the shower and keep their hand soap at EVERY sink in our house.

What does this mean for you?

The moral of this post is for you to 1) pay attention to the ingredients that are in your skincare regimen and each cosmetic product you use, and 2) consider switching over to Beautycounter products or another safe, transparent brand. The EWG Skin Deep app is a great place to start to evaluate the products you currently use.

I’d encourage you to go look at 2-3 products you currently use and see what’s on the label. If you don’t have the label on the container anymore, google the product! And if you want to prioritize, a good place to start is replacing anything you use on your entire body daily (e.g. body wash or body lotion). Or, you could work to replace anything that contains parabens and/or fragrance.

If you want help choosing the right products for you, fill out my quick skincare survey and I’ll email you back!

The post Beautycounter Never List: what it is and why you should read it appeared first on TeriLyn Adams.