12 Beauty Products I Can't Live Without

I recently dug through my makeup and toiletries bag and had two invasive thoughts. First off, why does all the good stuff run out at the same time? Secondly, what items could I not live without? I always think about those ice-breaker questions of the one item you would bring with you on a deserted island, and to be honest, that is an impossible question to answer, but that concept inspired today’s blog post. I'm excited to share with you twelve of my absolute must-have beauty products that I can't live without. From skincare to makeup essentials, these products have become staples in my daily routine, helping me look and feel my best. So, let's dive into my top twelve beauty must-haves!

 

1. elemis cleansing balm

I’ve tried a handful of cleansing balms, and I’ve decided that this one takes the cake. It is meant to be applied onto a dry, full face of makeup to melt away the day, leaving you feeling clean, refreshed, and hydrated without drying out your skin.

 
 

2. glow screen spf

This list would not be complete without some SPF (you’d definitely need that on a deserted island). This tinted glow screen is great to wear by itself for a glowy complextion but also plays nicely underneath makeup. See more of my SPF favorites here!

 
 

3. eye base

This is one of those products that you’re like “is it really necessary?” BUT it’s dual purpose as it can be used alone to even tone on your lids or as a base for eye shadow to keep it in place all day. Even when I keep my routine to a minimum, I always find myself using this.

 
 

4. mascara

I have a handful of favorite mascaras but this is my favorite one to wear daily. It doesn’t flake or smudge, and it’s easy to get off; I love the brush, which makes it easy to get all of the lashes. See more of my mascara favorites here!

 
 

5. brow gel

If eyes are the windows to your soul, eyebrows are the curtains. This brow gel tints and defines your brows. A few years ago, I shared my “backcombing” technique that I learned from my brow technician, and it has been a game changer! A little goes a long way, and this tube lasts forever.

 
 

6. beauty sponge

This is my most-used application method, and I use it for concealer, foundation, bronzer, blush, pressed powder, etc. I’ve tried dozens and I think this one is superior. It works best when damp, so I clean it under water before applying and replace it every month or so.

 
 

7. CC cream

I love a buildable foundation, this one is pretty full coverage but includes a hydrating serum and SPF. I tend to reach for this mostly through the warmer months, especially while traveling too.

 
 

8. bronzer

This bronzer is a splurge but fully lives up to the hype, I repurchased my second one after a year and a half of using it nonstop. It adds the most beautiful warmth to the skin, and a little goes a long way.

 
 

9. Setting Spray

I was skeptical of setting sprays and their legitimacy until I put it to the test of withstanding several elements and hours without touch-ups. 10/10!

 
 

10. Lipstick

Some sort of lip color is a must for me, I discovered this formula years ago from Carmindy herself and it’s such a beautiful universal shade!

 
 

11. Curling Iron

I’ve tried several curling irons and wands over the years but I continue to go back to this one. The curls last for days and I can’t reccommend this brand enough! I use the 1' inch wand.

 
 

12. Aquaphor

When all else fails, slather on Aquaphor. This stuff is magical, I use it on my face, hands, feet, literally anywhere that needs an extra dose of love.

 

THANKS FOR READING!

Thanks for exploring my top twelve beauty essentials with me! I hope you discovered some new favorites or were reminded of old classics. Now, I'm curious—what are your must-have beauty products? I’d love to have you share your favorites in the comments below. Thanks for reading!

xx CMK

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