A Non-Mainstream Autumn Glow: Discoveries from Suqqu, Kevyn Aucoin + Rouge Bunny Rouge

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When I first started Beauty Professor almost five years ago (!), I was inspired to share product discoveries from lines that were particularly difficult to procure. The thrill of the hunt, coupled with the commiseration with those also enjoyed searching high and low for something beautifully obscure made all of the swatching entirely worthwhile. Times have changed since those early days; the Internet has become more powerful–it’s reach seemingly infinite–and seamless, speedy international shipping is an expectation rather than a novelty. That being said, I still enjoy sharing products that, at least in the US, are a touch elusive and today’s story is dedicated to this neverending pursuit! From SUQQU to Rouge Bunny Rouge with a healthy dash of skin and haircare for good measure, I hope you enjoy the discoveries which collectively create a glowing autumn look.

Kindly scroll on for more details, swatches and images of the products in action as well as the Bottom Line…

// SUQQU // This venerable Japanese line is lauded for sleek design, gorgeous colors and high performance results…here are some key pieces from current and upcoming launches:

Proportionately speaking, the largest segment of this story is devoted to SUQQU; although not readily available in America, the line can be effortlessly ordered from Selfridge’s and, consequently, I have amassed a fair collection of products in the last couple of years.

Up first is the *SUQQU Blend Color Eyeshadow EX-32. Although it is a part of the Autumn collection, this quad seems to be difficult to currently locate online. Finely-milled and divinely pigmented, the compact features sparkling gold, velvety red, rich matte brown and luminous platinum shades that blend together in harmony. The quad is exceptional on the eyes (lovely color payoff, no creasing) and, if this particular shade combination is out of reach, here are some others for your perusal.

Swatches in direct sunlight.

Also for the eyes, the *SUQQU Deep Nuance Eyes in 02 Glowing Beige (formula also reviewed HERE and is recently back in stock!) is a wondrous option. This cream formula bathes the eyes in a rich cloak of color and Glowing Beige is a neutral taupe with a glorious satin finish. I combined it with the Eyeliner Liquid Pen Duo, which will be released later on this fall!

Swatches in direct sunlight.

For cheeks, I am embracing the resplendent *SUQQU Pure Color Blush in EX-1 and EX-3…these pink and coral (respectively) ombre options offer a fusion of color that ranges in intensity depending on where you place your brush. The pop of color that this formula imparts is exquiste…like a veil that creates a flush without any obvious texture. As of press time, both shades appeared out of stock but the very wearable nude and tea rose EX-02 Hanachaori is still available and (in light of my penchant for pale cheeks) I just may pick this one up as well. Unique and beautiful on the skin!

Swatches in direct sunlight.

Swatches in direct sunlight.

In the images at the end of the post, I used the SUQQU Extra Rich Cream Foundation in #203 (a lovely medium beige for N/NC 25-27 skin tones…other SUQQU foundations currently available HERE). Slated for release (along with the genius dual-sided foundation brush/sponge pictured above and below) on September 22nd, this medium to full coverage formula is innovative in its philosophy, composition and behavior on the skin. All in all, it’s become a favorite in August and I will do a more comprehensive review once the formula is officially available.

For lips, I am smitten for two shades that are arguably out of my comfort zone but sublimely wearable nonetheless:

*SUQQU Extra Glow Lipstick in 04 Ayasengo: This buttery formula drenches lips in moisture and shine while being marvelously pigmented. The texture is plush, thereby contributing to a delightfully volumizing effect on the lips. Ayasengo is a bright and creamy coral with absolutely no shimmer and remarkable lasting power.
*SUQQU Extra Glow Lipstick in 08 Fukabeni: Unlike any red I have tried to date, this neutral carmine tone imparts immediate opacit in a single swipe and looks bright without being over the top. Truly special. I love it so much that I want to try the orange shade next!

// KEVYN AUCOIN // For bronzing and glow, these two sleek compacts are all I’ve been reaching for as of late.

Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Bronzing Veil in Tropical Days (also reviewed HERE): An excellent warm tan to gently sculpt and define the face.
Kevyn Aucoin The Celestial Powder in Sunlight: I am over the moon for this illuminating powder; its golden beige sheen is unlike other highlighters in my collection and the radiance it imparts is all at once otherworldly and ultra-natural. Try this…you won’t regret it.

// ROUGE BUNNY ROUGE // The latest release is all about the brows. Naturally defined and poshly polished, two products take care of business with expertise.

*Rouge Bunny Rouge Long Lasting Brow Liner in Antimony and Trona: These retractable pencils feature an ultra-fine tip that allows one to create strokes small enough to mimic fine brow hairs. The stalwart formula resists smudging and the two shades are neutral enough to match a spectrum of brow tones.
*Rouge Bunny Rouge Brow Expert Gel: Featuring a tiny spooled wand, this clear gel brushes brows to perfection, adding shape, polish and definition for hours on end.

// SKINCARE + HAIRCARE DISCOVERIES // The end of summer has allowed me a lot of testing time and here are a few recent standouts…

Skincare etc. finds.

*Kiehls Turmeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Mask: The seasonal transition has left my skin a bit tempermental and this mask consistently helps to calm and clear it. Don’t let the yellow hue throw you off…its turmeric-rich ingredients brighten skin while the cranberry seeds provide gentle exfoliation. It’s 20 minutes well spent.
*La Prairie Skin Caviar Essence-in-Lotion (also available at Nordstrom): The latest from La Prairie, this water-meets-gel heightens the performance of all subsequent skin care products; I apply it with my hands directly after cleansing and sometimes am so impressed with how balanced and glowing my skin is, that I don’t even feel the need to follow with additional skincare. It’s pure magic and, in terms of texture, I have nothing like it in my collection!
*Sisley-Paris Double Tenseur (also soon to be available at Nordstrom and Beautylish): I have had the good fortune of working with this serum for the past month and am wildly captivated by its efficacy. Designed to lift, tighten and add radiance, this multitasking serum can be applied as a primer directly before makeup and also used atop makeup to refresh the face over the course of the day. I have been using it nonstop.
*Benir Beauty BV-9 Platinum Anti-Aging Bee Venom Cream: This utilitarian cream harnesses the power of bee venom to combat signs of aging, including uneven skin tone, wrinkles and slack skin. Super light and instantly absorbed, this cream is gentle enough to even be used on the sensitive eye area and powerful enough to deliver results. I can’t wait to continue giving this formula a try in the coming weeks and will weigh back in soon.
*Lina Hanson Global Treasures Eye/Neck Treatment Balm: Possessing one of the most divine scents on the market, this opulent balm (infused with real gold flecks) masterfully works on both the delicate eye and neck areas to hydrate and repair stressed skin; dryness and fine lines diminish with use and the intoxicating scent furthers the sensory experience.
*SiO Decollete Serum: After too many summers with not enough sunscreen (prior to my product-enlightened Beauty Professor years), I have been on a quest to treat my decollete with greater care. This journey includes the SiO line (which also features cleansing pads and a sleep-in mask for the chest…more on this later), especially the Decollete Serum. Lavishly moisturizing, a single pump plumps up the thin skin of my chest upon contact, making it look more youthful and glowing. So good.
*lilah b. b.kissed Lip Balm: Packaged in a chic and weighty white clamshell this minimalist wonder is deeply hydrating with a host of nourishing ingredients; smooth and silky (my lips feel great for hours), it’s a perfect entry point into the line!
*dpHue Color Brightening Gloss+ in Golden Blonde: This intensely rich conditioner infuses hair with moisture while also brightening up color (without peroxide or ammonia). I find that a 3-4 minute treatment brightens my natural highlights and adds a silky gloss effect that makes my hair bouncier and more voluminous. Highly recommended.

Natural beauty: lilah b.

The following images reflect all products in action in late afternoon light…plaid shirt from Nordstrom (similar option HERE) and choker by Elizabeth and James (reviewed HERE):

Wearing the Extra Glow Lipstick 04.

Wearing the Extra Glow Lipstick 04,

Wearing the Extra Glow Lipstick 04.

Wearing the Extra Glow Lipstick 04.