The Prettiest Skin Tint, A New SPF, And My Unexpected Summer Splurge
Everything I picked up in my latest Sephora haul. What I tried, what I’m loving, and the one splurge I didn’t plan on buying.
I’m currently on my ongoing SPF quest. I stopped by Sephora to restock a few old favorites, try a couple new recommendations, and grab a few things that caught my eye. Breaking everything down by category below, plus sharing a few extra thoughts after testing some of these formulas. You can also shop all my favorites here.
SPF / Skin Protection
I’ve always been a little obsessive when it comes to sun protection. My skin is prone to freckles, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation, and the sun finds me fast. I did IPL a few months ago and it cleared so much of my sun damage (if you’ve been thinking about it, I highly recommend, there’s no downtime and completely painless). But even a few minutes outside and the freckles start creeping back. Add in postpartum hormones this year and it’s been a whole new level of hyperpigmentation. Most of it fades in winter, but every summer feels like I’m starting from scratch again. SPF has always been a must-have in my skincare routine, so I wanted to share what’s working for me in case anyone has similar issues.
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50
This is an old favorite that I keep coming back to. It’s invisible, weightless, and works beautifully under makeup. On days I want that clear, primer-like finish with no white cast or pilling, this is what I grab. It has a nice little grip too, so foundation goes on smooth and stays put. You can see above how different it looks from the Caudalie formula. Supergoop has that jelly-like texture, and the Caudalie feels more like your classic sunscreen.
Caudalie Vinosun Daily Protection SPF 50
This is a newer product that several people recommended to me, and Caudalie always has beautiful formulas, so I wanted to give it a try. I like that it’s packed with antioxidants, which is a big plus. However, my first impression was a little underwhelming. The texture is super runny, more like a traditional sunscreen, but it does settle nicely on the skin. The scent is really nice, which makes it more enjoyable to use. Will keep you updated on how I like this product over the summer.
One/Size On ’Til Dawn Mattifying Sunscreen Setting Spray SPF 28
This was actually recommended by one of the Sephora associates while I was checking out. A mattifying makeup setting spray with SPF 28, love the idea of having a setting spray that adds a little extra sun protection throughout the day. Especially helpful for touch-ups or reapplication when you're already wearing a full face of makeup.
SPF I'm Currently Using:
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 — This has been my go-to lately. Lightweight and works well under makeup, and great for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Other highly recommended face SPFs (on my list or have tried and loved):
A few other popular SPFs I’ve tried or considered:
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Face Moisturizer SPF 30 — This is the sunscreen I used last summer. I liked that it had ceramides and niacinamide, which sounded great for my skin. But unfortunately, it just didn’t work for me. The texture felt a little too heavy, and it made my eyes water throughout the day. I know a lot of people really love this formula, and for the price point, I still think it’s a great option for many. It just wasn’t the best fit for me personally.
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50+ — A K-beauty fan favorite. Super lightweight, moisturizing, and works great under makeup. Will be ordering once it’s back in stock.
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 30 — I feel like everyone keeps mentioning this one for a glowy, no-makeup makeup day. It’s on my list to try before summer’s over.
Skin + Makeup Prep
The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA
This is supposed to be a great dupe for Sunday Riley Good Genes. It gently exfoliates, helps minimize pores, and improves texture and dullness. Lactic acid can irritate skin, so it’s best to start slow. The Ordinary also makes a 5% version if you’re more sensitive. I used this the first night after bringing it home and I loved it, especially for the price. I woke up with brighter skin. I’ve been really focused on my retinol lately, so it felt good to switch things up and wake up to a different kind of glow. I’m planning to use this once a week to target texture and discoloration. With everything I picked up from Sephora, this is the one I’d recommend trying first.
Complexion + Makeup
Tower 28 SunnyDays Tinted SPF - Shade: 35 Point Dume
Let me just start by saying, this was stunning on my skin. Probably one of the prettiest finishes I’ve ever seen. The shade match is almost perfect for me right now, and even without any setting powder, it still looked beautiful and natural all day. I really hope this continues to work for me as I wear it more, but my first impression is a 10/10. It’s lightweight coverage is perfect for summer. I now understand the hype. It also has SPF 28, so another added bonus to the product.
Kosas Revealer Extra Bright - Shade: Illusion
I’ve been loyal to Bobbi Brown’s Corrector for years. It’s lightweight, natural, and still one of my favorites for under-eye darkness. But after hearing so much about Kosas, I wanted to give it a try. It’s heavier than the Bobbi Brown corrector, and I don’t love a lot of product under my eyes, but so many people with mature skin swear by it. I went with the shade Illusion, a peachy-pink that helps neutralize my blue-toned dark circles, for light to medium skin. The shade Magic is super popular too, but it’s much lighter and better for very fair skin. Illusion felt like a better match for my skin tone and what I’m trying to correct.
Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Concealer Brush
I’ve heard so many people rave about this one for blending under eye concealer, and after eyeing it for a while, I finally grabbed it. I used it with the Kosas corrector and it worked so well. It blended everything out really smoothly and helped the product sit nicely on my skin. I have a similar brush from Bobbi Brown, which I still love, but this one feels a little lighter and gives a softer, more diffused finish. I can see myself using this brush daily.
Lip + Eye
Huda Beauty Lip Contour Stain - Shade: Rosewood
This is a newer formula for me. I love a lip stain that feels natural, lightweight, and actually stays put. Rosewood is a really pretty berry shade. I’ve been using it for a few days now and while I like the color and the applicator, it didn’t last quite as long on me as I expected. I still really enjoy wearing it, especially because it stays longer than any other liner I own. But I’m curious to try the Covergirl lip stain next, especially since it’s only $8. From what I’ve seen online, it seems to have a similar finish, with mixed reviews on how well it actually lasts. Stay tuned for an updated review on this lip stain.
Kérastase Glaze Drops
I’ve been trying to get my hands on this for weeks because it’s been sold out almost everywhere. After finally trying it in-store, I fully understand why it’s so hyped. The texture is lightweight but delivers an immediate silky softness. My hair felt smoother, shinier, and healthier almost instantly. It helps lock out humidity and gives a beautiful, high-gloss finish without ever feeling heavy or greasy. This is absolutely going into my regular haircare routine. If you see it in stock, it’s worth grabbing, especially for the price.
The Little Nordstrom Splurge
L'Occitane Almond Shimmering Body Oil
This one wasn’t part of my Sephora trip, but as I was walking through Nordstrom and the almost empty tester bottle caught my eye. It’s definitely a splurge for body oil ($54 for 1.7 oz), and normally I wouldn’t spend that much on something like this. But the scent is so luxurious, and the formula left my skin with the warmest glow without feeling greasy or heavy. This purchase felt a bit impulsive, but I think it’s going to be worth every penny. They were out of stock at the store, so the sales associate ordered one to be shipped to my house. I checked my email this morning and it’s already on the way. Can’t wait to add it to my summer skincare routine. Will keep you posted on this product once it arrives.
Now that I have a few SPFs in my lineup, along with a new skin tint, I’m feeling excited about my summer makeup routine. I’ll continue to keep you updated on any products that work or don’t work. If you’ve used any of the products, let me know. I love hearing what’s working or what’s not working for other people. I’m the queen of reading reviews, so I’d love to hear yours.