Wednesday, May 28, 2014

2014 Summer Essentials!

hi, guys. I'm back! after over a month.. shew! 
life got busy and I took a bit of a break, but I'm back with some great posts and favorite products to share with you :) today is all about my favorite summer products, because its finally nice and sunny and warm here, and I can't get enough of it! 


1. Neutrogena Clear Face Sunscreen, $10 (comes in SPF 30 or 55)
I'm not gonna lie and say I avoid the sun, stay under an umbrella, faithfully wear a hat, etc all to prevent wrinkles. I do love the sun, and a healthy tan, but I also think its very important to protect your skin, and sunscreen is the way to do that; however, its probably not always wise to use a regular sunscreen (for your body) on your face. I always keep a face-only sunscreen with me, and I love this Neutrogena one because it promotes clear, break-out free skin. Its very sheer but does its job. 

2. Arbonne Awaken Sea Salt Scrub, $30
I've never been that girl with exceptionally smooth legs. I would shave and apply lotion immediately and my legs would look dry a few hours later. My sister told me about this scrub (which can be used for way more than shaving.. I use it all over as well) and I finally gave in and tried hers, and bought some that same day. Its a salt scrub with an amazing smelling oil. I just rub it all over my legs, to exfoliate, then rinse, then use the oil that is left on my skin to shave. I don't use shower gel or shaving cream, just this scrub, and my legs are smoother than ever. Its definitely my #1 summer essential, because I shave my legs every day with it, and barely even have to use lotion (although I do just for extra moisture) and my legs and skin in general has never looked better! (this scrub has to be ordered directly through an Arbonne consultant, so if you are interested, contact Kristin at kristindaniels7@gmail.com)

3. Nivea Extended Moisture Body Lotion, $6
I didn't really put much thought into this purchase. I wanted a good summertime lotion and saw "extended moisture" and "long lasting" so I picked it up.. and I'm so glad I did! I love it because it doesn't have that strong of a scent, so it doesn't interfere with the smell of my perfume, and it is SUPER moisturizing. I can put it on during the day and still feel it on my skin the next morning. Perfect for summertime when you're showing more skin.. I love applying it when I've been in the sun all day. It feels so great on my skin and is the most hydrating lotion I've ever used. 

4. Revlon Lip Butter in Creme Brulee, $8
I've definitely mentioned these at least 3 or 4 times on my blog.. because they're my FAVORITE lip product ever. I love how great they make my lips feel. Never drying. and I love the sheer wash of color.. which makes it perfect for summer because its effortless. Creme Brulee is, and always has been, my favorite and I wear it every day, but the lip butters come in a ton of colors ranging from pretty soft nudes to bright pinks, corals, and reds. Definitely a summer must have!

5. Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets, $6
To be honest, the Clean & Clear sheets are the only kind I've ever tried, but I'm sure any oil absorbing sheet would work fine. To me, summer means sweaty, oily skin so I keep these with me to blot any excess oil. I also love that they don't remove any makeup. 

6. Wet n Wild Color Icon Bronzer in 'Bikini Contest', $3
I typically use matte bronzers but in the summertime I just can't resist adding a little bronzed glow to my cheeks. This bronzer is super inexpensive but, like all Wet n Wild products, has great color payoff. It isn't too shimmery, but adds the perfect amount of color to your cheeks and/or T zone to give you a sunkissed look that isn't too orange or muddy. I also love that it has SPF 15!

7. Dove Advanced Care Clear Tone Deodorant, $6
Its summertime sooo.. I'm hoping you'll be using deodorant! I love Dove deodorants in general because they smell great. I specifically love the Clear Tone ones because they keep the skin under your arms pretty, if that makes sense. Its hydrating and safe, doesn't leave white creases or residue in your underarms, and it smells great!

8. Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Half Baked, $18
This color came in my Naked 2 palette, but if you're not looking to buy an expensive palette, then at least get this shadow in a single! Its the perfect summertime color. Its a gorgeous bronzey gold that compliments any eye color, but I even like to dust it over my cheek bones as an illuminator. It just screams summer to me!

9. Urban Decay DeSlick Mattifying Powder, $32
I loved this in the winter, but I've been loving it even more recently. It absorbs oil so well, and since its translucent, you don't have to worry about picking out the right color to match your skin or foundation. It makes the shine go away instantly and effortlessly and I don't leave home without it! 

10. Maybelline Volum' Express Mega Plush Mascara, $8
This has definitely been mentioned here one or two times as well. I am in love with how natural this mascara looks.. its like you aren't wearing any at all. It lengthens the lashes and volumizes but somehow never looks clumpy, dry, or flaky. To be honest, I'm not really a waterproof mascara person. If I plan to get wet (pool, beach, etc) I just don't wear mascara; however, those of you who are looking for a good waterproof option, pick this up. because its extremely natural looking and lasts forever!

11. Nivea Lip Butter in Raspberry Rose, $2-3
Yet another lip butter.. not to be confused with the Revlon ones! This one smells amazing, and I was surprised to find that it leaves the prettiest pearly pink tint to your lips. I honestly use this more for moisture because it feels AMAZING on my lips, but the smell and color are just added bonuses! 

__________________________________________

So, what products do you consider must-haves for spring and summer? I want to hear all about it!