The last week and a half has been a fascinating experiment with sleep deprivation! My husband and I are learning that feeding a newborn baby (full story HERE) every 2 hours takes near-superhuman stamina and, despite being excessively tired at any given moment right now, I am impressed by how much functioning can be done despite immense exhaustion.
I am working on a blog post that shares everything I’ve learned about being the new mom of a newborn in this first month of her life but in the meanwhile, I am excited to share some beautifully high-performance late-summer launches–from a miracle hair volumizing formula to creative base products that adeptly perfect the canvas–that have been a regular part of my recent routine.
Kindly scroll on for more details, swatches and images of the launches in action as well as the Bottom Line…
Skincare + Haircare.
// SKINCARE + HAIRCARE // Time has been at a major premium as of late and here are the five things I’ve been reaching for each day.
*First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser: This fluffy foaming formula gently cleanses my skin without stripping…it’s gentle yet effective.
*Agustinus Bader The Rich Cream(reviewed HERE): I am on my second bottle of this future classic and simply cannot get enough. A single pump in the morning is all I’ve been applying to moisturize and the bouncy and hydrated texture that results continues to make me a believer in this innovative formula. Let’s put it this way, my dermatologist recently asked me what I was using for moisturizer and, when I told her, she promptly asked me to text her a link to this cream…it’s truly special.
*Sunday Riley Good Genes (originally reviewed HERE): After a few years without it, I have now revisited this lactic-acid formula with a cult following, applying a single pump at night before bed. It gently exfoliates (read: no redness, flaking or irritation) and I wake up with the closest this adult can have to baby skin each and every morning.
*Philosophy Pure Grace Endless Summer Firming Body Lotion: New in my body care routine, this lotion boasts delightful tropical notes while bathing my skin in hydration. I am totally addicted to applying it to my limbs post-shower and hope it has the power to extend the summertime just a little bit longer.
*Hair Rituel by Sisley Voluming Spray (also available at Neiman Marcus and haircare line reviewed HERE): Infused with the same intoxicating fragrance found in the entire Hair Rituel line (seriously, it’s like the best perfume), this volumizing spray can be applied to wet hair or dry (fabulous as a mid-day refresher) to add texture, fullness and pronounced volume while mitigating the frizziness that oft-comes with summertime humidity. My hair is stick straight and just a few sprays of this magical elixir gives it lift and fullness (see proof in the images at the end of this post!) that I previously could only accomplish through heat styling. Simply divine!
What It Is: Texture & Density supports the hair from the roots and provides the look of increased texture and volume for a long-lasting lifting effect. Deliciously scents hair. Light texture that doesn’t leave hair sticky. Humidity resistant.
How to Use: On damp hair, before drying or styling, hold 8 inches away and spray on the top, back and each side of the head, lifting the hair. Can also be applied to touch up dry hair. Do not rinse.
Ever a foundationphile, I was extremely excited when the brand reached out about having me try the *Kosas Tinted Face Oil. Between my curiosity and recent reader and follower questions on the new formula, I couldn’t wait to put this hybrid blend on my face!
Equal parts serum, moisturizer, primer and foundation, just a couple of drops of this weightless wonder are all this is needed to impart medium coverage and completely perfect my canvas. The result is transformational yet entirely natural looking and the lasting power–especially for a formula that includes the word “oil”–is formidable. It resists oxidation and stays in place, even in humid weather while somehow feeling like absolutely nothing on the skin.
Despite having tried well over 200 base formulas over the years, I can honestly say that I have never experienced a foundation exactly like this and deeply appreciate the clean ingredients and stalwart performance.
After testing the three shades that were sent my way (keep reading for swatches), I determined that #6 is a spot-on match for my NC 27-30 medium skin with olive undertones. I simply shake the bottle and distribute a few drops all over my face with my fingers…no brush or sponge needed. All in all, I am very pleased with this foundation…it truly must be tried to be believed!
Tinted Face Oil is a feather-weight medium coverage foundation and deeply hydrating skin elixir. Three types of pigment are delivered in a base of six active botanical oils to instantly even skin tone, minimize pores, and erase imperfections. Designed to be as easily applied as a daily serum or moisturizer, the breathable silky formula’s oils are quickly absorbed by the skin, leaving behind a perfecting layer of self-adjusting color with a velvety finish – no blending required.
For medium coverage, shake Tinted Face Oil well to emulsify, then massage 2-4 drops to skin using fingertips just as you would apply a serum or moisturizer. For fuller coverage, use 4-6 drops. For lighter coverage, use 1 drop and apply directly to skin where desired.
02 – Fair with neutral undertones 03 – Light with neutral undertones 04 – Medium with warm undertones 05 – Tan with warm undertones 06 – Tan with olive undertones 07 – Deep tan with neutral undertones 08 – Deep with warm undertones 09 – Deep dark with mauve undertones 10 – Ultra deep with neutral undertones
Medium skin tone swatches of the *Kosas Tinted Face Oilin direct sunlight…#6 is a befitting match for medium skin with olive undertones.
The *Sisley-Paris Stylo Lumiere (also available at Neiman Marcus) offers a portable and precise perfecting glow. The ultra-thin formula is designed to deliver a flattering light anywhere on the face–from under eyes to lines and wrinkles, this incandescent wand instantly brightens without looking the slightest bit conspicuous. I love sweeping it in my orbital region (I can almost get away without wearing concealer when I do this) and also along the high points of my face and nasal-labial folds to correct shadows and transmit light. Once you get the hang of using it liberally, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this the multi-tasking tool!
A genius fusion of skincare and color correcting makeup, the *Sisley-Paris Stylo Lumierecomes in four versatile shades:
01 Pearly Rose
02 Peach Rose
03 Soft Beige (my best match)
04 Golden Beige
Official details, courtesy of Neiman Marcus:
What It Is: Stylo Lumière is a highlighter pen that boosts the complexion’s radiance. It diminished the look of shadowy areas, refreshes, illuminates the eyes and visibly smoothes wrinkles and fine lines. The combination of pigments and soft focus agents illuminates the complexion and conceals imperfections with a sheer look.
“Specular Light” pigments were specifically selected for their ultra luminous properties. True accumulators of light, these new pigments have a refractive effect like that of diamond. Enriched with beauty-enhancing skin care ingredients – Acai extract, Golden Apple tree extract, Oat seeds and White Lily extractStylo Lumière reinforces day after day the complexion’s brightness, radiance, look of youth. The fine, fresh and light texture softly glides on the skin to ensure a perfect hold.
Stylo Lumière is available in 4 fresh and luminous shades for a “no make-up” make-up result.
How to Use: Twist the base to infuse the cushion with the product, then apply to areas for brightening, then blend with a light tapping motion.
Can be reapplied throughout the day without adding heaviness or ‘caking’ to the skin.
Can be Applied:
Alone on bare skin.
Before foundation to visibly smooth wrinkles and fine lines and to refresh.
Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter #4(reviewed HERE): Just a few swipes on my face to gently prime the skin, I am almost finished with my first bottle. It’s that good…and shade 4, which will work for medium skin and is constantly sold out at most retailers, is currently available on the Charlotte Tilbury site.
*Kosas Tinted Face Oil #6: Just a few drops of this innovative foundation creates fresh medium coverage and a glowing, demi-matte finish that lasts the entire day. #6 is wonderful for my medium skin with subtle olive undertones.
BY TERRY Sun Designer #6 Happy Sun (reviewed HERE): I applied the top two shades on the right side of the palette as a muted contour along the hollows of my cheeks and perimeters of my face. Due to its utilitarian nature, I urge you to get this LE gem while you still can. You won’t regret it!
*Kosas Pressed Blush and Highlight in Contrachroma: This peachy tan blush resides side-by-side with a warm highlighter for ethereal sculpting in seconds. I applied a mix of both shades on the apples of my cheeks for a healthy flush.
*Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder in Glow: Last week, I went to the Los Angeles launch for this powder and this week, I cannot stop using it! The finely milled formula sets makeup with ease while imparting a tender glow that make skin look glowy yet matte and perfected yet natural (paradoxical, I know). For an even better look at it in action, see this recent Instagram post. This powder is well worth the pursuit!
*Hourglass Use Caution Mascara (reviewed HERE): Lately, I am consistently impressed with this new mascara launch…it builds depth, intense volume and notable length in a couple of coats. It resists smudging and flaking and performs like a champ…love it.
*Kosas Weightless Lip Color in Rosewater (also available at Neiman Marcus): I was instantly drawn to this “my lips but better” natural pink and am smitten with its buildable texture and hydrating formula. I can imagine this particular shade being a major hit with a spectrum of lip color lovers.
A closer look at the *Kosas Weightless Lip Color (also available at Neiman Marcus)…my favorite shades in the lineup include the semi-sheer warm pink Stardust, impressively opaque warm neutral Undone and translucent yet buildable cool pink Rosewater (worn in the images at the end of this post).
The formula is creamy, lightweight, hydrating and fragrance-free…the color payoff and lasting power are formidable and the shades are universally flattering. Can’t wait to experiment with the other shades!
Johannah Elle resting in her Fisher Price Rock n Play (a sweet and invaluable gift from my friends at Clé de Peau Beauté) while I shot this story at home.
The following images reflect all products in action in afternoon sunlight…
The eye look.
Style notes.
// STYLE NOTES //
Lorena Canals Kaarol Rug: I purchased this run late last month and am in love with its slightly colorful styling and cotton composition…this brightens our neutral cream-focused living room can be thrown into the washing machine and dryer with ease. Simply brilliant!
Off-black distressed tee: Slightly deconstructed and super soft, this tee shirt can effortlessly be dressed up or down…I wear it a couple times a week.
Bottom Line: I hope you enjoyed this overview of gloriously high-performance launches from Sisley-Paris, Kosas and Laura Mercier…all three have been on my face nonstop as of late and I cannot recommend the *Hair Ritual by Sisley Voluming Sprayenough for all hair types!
I would love to know what caught your eye…do tell.
I have a cornucopia of fresh releases accumulating here at BP HQ and cannot wait to show you the latest from Becca, Dior and La Prairieas well as a fresh video and nursery tour…much to share (and respond to…thank you for all of your recent comments and emails) in the coming days!
In the meanwhile, catch an advanced look on my Instagram handle (new stories daily!) and more soon…xx,
Hi, just on the verge of deciding between gressa and kosas. Your reply would be very helpful. Which one of the two would be suitable for a more humid and hotter climate. Which of the two is more dry than the other, secondly do you think the two could be mixed together, would they mix well?
Btw this look is looking is fantastic on you, would love to see a video/demo of this, you look infinitely glowy and love the pants. Congratulations on being a mum.
Comments (6)
The Bader! the Kosas! These have been on my radar and I so appreciate your reviews of them!
Thankyou so much B.P!! I'm loving the Charlotte Tilbury flawless filter as well. Xoxo. That foundation looks interesting and very good for us.
Hi, just on the verge of deciding between gressa and kosas. Your reply would be very helpful. Which one of the two would be suitable for a more humid and hotter climate. Which of the two is more dry than the other, secondly do you think the two could be mixed together, would they mix well?
The reason I ask is that I think gressa seems to have a very strong yellow tone to it. Where as kosas seems to have more natural shades.
Btw this look is looking is fantastic on you, would love to see a video/demo of this, you look infinitely glowy and love the pants. Congratulations on being a mum.
You look your absolute best, I think it may have something to do with having this gorgeous little girl in your life. ?