When Makeup and Skincare Unite

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Spring Refreshers

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I’ve recently added a few new skincare items into the mix and I’m absolutely thrilled to death with them. With the impending birth of my second child, I’m doing everything I can to streamline my beauty routine, without skimping on much. So, combining skincare with makeup, in the case of the BB cream, was right up my alley.

Words that are attractive to me right now are “blur” and “skin perfector” and “glow”. I’m not sure how many of these will be emanating from within, if you know what I’m saying,Β with little sleep and hormonal changes, but I can do everything I can with my skincare to fake it!

To be totally honest, this is the first BB cream that I’ve really fallen in love with. I found with others I’ve tried in the past that they are worthlessly sheer or end up making my skin feel rather oily. And I don’t have oily skin, so I hated that issue. I resolved that I just wasn’t a BB cream kind of gal. But, I’ve used Estee Lauder Double Wear Light foundation and loved the coverage, so when I saw the Double Wear All-Day Glow BB Moisture Makeup I knew I had to try it. Could it be a BB cream that provides the right amount of hydration and coverage, without feeling too heavy or oily?

I even set it up for success by using Kiehl’s Micro-Blur Skin Perfector underneath it. This is a dream product on my skin. It goes on like silk, and almost feels like a bit of a makeup primer. It smooths everything out, hides my pores, and even hydrates any dry areas while leaving my skin completely matte. This could easily be used under a BB Cream or liquid foundation, but it would also make powder (loose or pressed) sit perfectly on the skin.

I love when my skin care products not only make my skin better, but it also allows my makeup to wear better too.

Allow me to walk you through how I wear and layer these products. Not shown is me applying the Clinique All About Eyes Serum under my eyes. I did that right after the shower so it had plenty of time to soak in while I applied my eye makeup. I love the metal rollerball on the end of the eye serum. It’s so refreshing and cooling!

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I started with a nickel size amount of Fresh Lotus Youth PreserveΒ face cream. It doesn’t get any better than this for a daily face cream.

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Then I grabbed a pea sized amount of Kiehl’s Micro-Blur Skin Perfector and applied it starting around my nose and working outwards. Of the products I applied on my face, this one feels the softest.

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Other than some dark spots on the tops of my cheeks, which may be related to pregnancy, my skin is blemish-free. So, I just needed a little bit of the Estee Lauder Double Wear All-Day Glow BB Moisture Makeup. This has an SPF of 30, which is fantastic, and keeps my skin balanced all day.

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I finished with a bit of under eye concealer, blush, and a few swipes of mascara on my lower lashes.

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The biggest time saver of all, when it comes to my beauty routine in the morning, is not having to cover up blemishes. My skin wasn’t always this clear, and I remember fussing over broken blemishes and trying to cover them *just right* without the concealer caking up around the spot.

I know I owe it to finding the right products to use on my skin to keep everything balanced, hydrated, clean and even. And seasonally that changes as well. Come summertime, I may skip the Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve day cream and just go with the Micro-Blur Skin Perfector plus the Double Wear All-Day Glow BB Moisture Makeup. There’s likely enough hydration in both of those products to keep my skin from looking dry in the muggy summer days.

This post was created in collaboration with Nordstrom.

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Kim says · 01.29.15

I LOVE this makeup look! It looks so natural and fresh – and that BB cream sounds amazing! Would love to see more makeup routines πŸ™‚ thanks for sharing!

Kim
http://trendkeeper .. Are YOU on track?!

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Heather says · 01.29.15

I have the same issue with BB creams: I love the concept but they make my skin feel oily. I may have to try this one!
Oh, the brown spots are definitely pregnancy melasma. I had similar ones during my first pregnancy despite being a hardcore sunblock devotee. The good news is after my son was born they faded in a few months. Just be aware that once you’ve had them, they’re more likely to reappear with sun exposure, especially if you get pregnant again or if you’re on hormonal birth control.

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Lori says · 02.02.15

Yep, pregnancy melasma. I had it with my first-third. It fades, but mine never went away. It will pop up here and there. It’s a pain in the butt! Sunscreen doesn’t even help. Avoid the sun is all I can do and I’m not good at that! Mine does look better in the winter, ie no sun. Oh well! Hopefully you will have better luck with it.

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Charli Stoneman says · 01.28.16

I would.love to recommend Rodan + Fields Reverse regimen for melasma, sun damage, dark marks. Rodan + Fields are the doctors who created Proactiv and they own have a new skincare company with regimens created for the four basic skincare concerns. They stand by their products with a 60 Day money back guarantee too! Contact me if I can help you.

Charli Stoneman (on facebook)

7575373334

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Eileen says · 01.29.15

i always have to check out the products you recommend! We have similar skin tone so what works for you usually works for me. Also I had those EXACT same dark spots after my pregnancy! They are fading now (ahem- 6 years later!) but they are literally the same shape and spot as yours. An aesthetician told me it was likely due to pregnancy.

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Meghan says · 01.29.15

I have the exact same spots. Got them with my second baby (5 years ago)! I hope they fade someday!!!

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Angela R says · 01.29.15

Love the estee lauder BB. I went to buy the double wear foundation when you reviewed it and the lady at the counter convinced me to try the BB instead. Such a great product!

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Jen says · 01.29.15

Do you think this routine would provide enough coverage for someone with blemishes?

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Kate says · 01.29.15

Depends on the blemishes. Maybe not because typically BB creams are sheer, but concealer over blemishes could soften the look.

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Melissa says · 01.29.15

I feel the same way about BB creams. Although I love Dr. Jart+ Black Label Detox BB. it’s so awesome. I have sensitive combination skin and it does the trick!

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Kate says · 01.29.15

I’ve heard great things about that bb cream!

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Kim Rock-Carter says · 01.29.15

Do you prefer the BB cream over the Arbonne liquid foundation?

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Kate says · 01.29.15

No because they both do different things. Arbonne liquid foundation provides full coverage. This BB cream is a more sheer finish. You can’t really put them in the same category, you know what I mean?

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Celsey says · 01.29.15

I’d also like to know her thoughts on this.

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Celsey says · 01.29.15

Oops didn’t see her post right about mine! πŸ™‚

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Jessica says · 01.29.15

I have yet to find a BB cream I like either, so I am excited to try this one. I don’t have access to a Nordstrom. Do you have any recommendations for an alternative to the Kiehl’s micro-blur?

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Kate says · 01.29.15

Arbonne’s makeup primer is similar in consistency

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Chrissy says · 01.29.15

What shade do you use in the BB cream? The Double Wear Foundation was a go to for me for the longest time, but it felt heavy on my skin. Can’t wait to try the BB cream out!

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Kate says · 01.29.15

the lightest one! I’d always rather compensate with a bronzer if it’s too light

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Haley says · 01.29.15

What cleansing products do you use? I have a hard time with blemishes right now and can’t seem to find any scrub or cleanser that I just love!

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Kate says · 01.29.15

I love Caudalie or Fresh products (both can be found at Sephora). And I use POND’S makeup remover wipes at night.

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Emily -- The Rossetto Blog says · 01.29.15

Ohh that Kiehl’s micro blur is intriguing. The price definitely causes a pause for deliberations! I’m with Jessica above, any comparable alternatives?

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Absolutely Tara says · 01.29.15

Great look. I like how you described some of these products and think I’d like to check then our now. I need to get a tinted moisturizer of some sort for more casual days. Thanks for sharing.
http://absolutelytara.com

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Kelly says · 01.29.15

I’m a big make-up and beauty product fan, so I just had to tell you that you are absolutely gorgeous without make-up!!! While I love your made up look here, I still think that picture 1, where you have no product on is the best!

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Kate says · 01.29.15

well that is stinking nice. Thank you!!

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Lara says · 01.30.15

I agree! You look amazing in the first pic, natural yet polished. Forget the makeup, you glow!

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Krista says · 01.29.15

This looks amazing! Definitely something I’m interested in adding to my collection.

http://www.kristajacobs.blogspot.com

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Kristine D says · 01.29.15

Have you ever tried Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint? It’s labeled as a tinted moisturizer but has a coverage similar to a cc cream. My skin is dry and the Hyaluronic in it really helps without making it oily/greasy at all. The finish is natural to dewy but can be matted out with a setting powder if you like. It’s really awesome and has become my everyday base.

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Terri says · 01.29.15

I’ve tried lots of bb creams too and wasn’t impressed with any of them and didn’t care for the lingering SPF smell that most of them leave behind. I actually tagged you on IG for the IT Cosmetics CC cream! I’m fair like you and use the lightest shade (fair). It’s a good time saver for me with two little ones to get ready in the morning. I only use it and eye cream so it saves me the steps of moisturizers and/or serums. Find myself reaching for it M-F and only using my liquid foundation on the weekends….

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Jenny says · 01.29.15

I didn’t realize they made Double Wear BB!! This is a game changer. My favorite BB is by Maybelline and I wear it every work day. It makes my routine so quick and easy. But this Estee Lauder BB looks like it has a little more coverage than the Maybelline! I want this in my life, pronto!
xx
Jenny // Mish Mosh Makeup

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Amy says · 01.29.15

I am very new to the tinted moisturizers and foundation world. Question…would you wear a liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer in the colder months then switch to a powder foundation in the warmer months? I live in AZ where it’s pretty much warm/hot year round so I’m not sure where to start!

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Tyana says · 01.29.15

I love clinique but there balms aren’t pigmented at all

check out my newest post
xx
Tyana
theluxedition.blogspot.com

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Aliza says · 01.29.15

Have you tried Boscia BB cream? The people at Sephora just introduced me to it, and I am in LOVE! It makes my skin look perfect!!!
Also, do you ever wear your Tarte amazonian clay airbrush foundation on top of BB cream or do you find it to be too much?
Thanks!!

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Amy says · 01.29.15

Oh Kate! I’m SO glad you said that about BB creams! I thought I was the only one, I have dry skin, yet they make me look super greasy! I thought I was nuts! πŸ™‚

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Natalie N says · 01.29.15

I think all mom’s should get a lifetime supply of Clinique’s “all about eyes” serum. It really helps when you are not getting sleep. I also like bliss’s “under eye baggage”. Thanks for the post!

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Lauren says · 01.29.15

I agree with the BB cream oiliness situation. I’ve had trouble finding one that doesnt make my skin oily, when it isn’t oily to begin with.

I’ve never used Khiels products but I keep hearing such great things- I should probably start!

Lovely post.

Lauren
http://www.spacebyLV.com

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Erin says · 01.29.15

Your skin is gorgeous! Congratulations on your little one:)

Erin | Erin and Katherine Talk Beauty

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Clever Girl Reviews says · 01.29.15

I’ve been curious about the Estee BB but I’m not sure the lightest shade would work for me!

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Stacy says · 01.29.15

PONDS BB cream is awesome. I felt the same way about the too sheer coverage and the oily feel. But I now use BB cream every day. Love it.

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Nikoleta says · 01.29.15

Great post! πŸ™‚
Never tried these products before, but I will definitely try them on πŸ™‚

Nikoleta, xoxo.

http://nljuljduraj.blogspot.com/2015/01/mac-mocha-blush.html

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Leah | So, How's It Taste? says · 01.29.15

I’m so glad you posted about a BB cream. I can’t seem to find one that I like, so I’m going to give the Estee Lauder one a try. Great post!

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Brittney says · 01.29.15

Hi Kate, I noticed you mentioned dark spots under your eyes so I wanted to recomend a product. Rodan and Fields sells a line called reverse that works miracles on melasma/the mask of pregnancy. It’s dermatology grade, but without a prescription. If you want to email me, I would be happy to send you some before and afters. I am a consultant so you can check out the product line on my website here if you like : https://bgamble1.myrandf.com/Shop/Reverse

It works wonders on melasma and other face darkening issues. I’d be happy to provide you with more information if you’re interested in trying it out! Thanks!

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Alexa R says · 01.29.15

Kate! You are absolutely GORGEOUS with or without make-up! It’s so true! You are completely glowing!

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Ivana says · 01.29.15

FINALLY you found a product with SPF – not sure if you wear SPF on the regular, but seeing those horrible dark spots on your face around you eyes makes me hope you continue. SPF ALL THE WAY!

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Kate says · 01.29.15

ouch! Also, I’m pretty sure they aren’t from the sun after all. I think they are a symptom of pregnancy. And yes I wear SPF daily!

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Ivana says · 01.31.15

You said yourself they were from the sun – did you forget?

I have never heard you mention using an SPF before – enlighten us – and makeup SPF is not SPF. Lotus lotion has no SPF either. No need for the snark reply Kate.

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Kate says · 02.01.15

Before I knew melasma existed, I thought they were sun spots. It makes more sense that they are likely melasma given that I am currently pregnant and they showed up during this pregnancy. I’m not arguing with you that SPF is important, I agree that it is. My comment back to you was not intended to be snarky.

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Karen says · 01.30.15

That was a really harsh comment, but, as usual, Kate handled it gracefully. Kate, I think you look beautiful with and without your makeup! You inspire me everyday to put a little bit more effort into taking care of me. I’m work at home mom with two little ones and a third on the way and I like to feel and look good, too. Thanks for everything you do and the great product recommendations!

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Kate says · 01.30.15

Thanks Karen!

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Sarah says · 01.30.15

It may seem like a harsh comment but sun protection is really important, regardless of whether the spots are from pregnancy or sun exposure. This blog focuses a lot on facial products but never mentions SPF and sun protection. And BB cream should not be the only SPF product a person relies on.

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Anne says · 01.30.15

If the content upsets you so, don’t bother reading it or sharing your nasty comments.

I agree-Kate, you handled the uncalled for ‘attention’ beautifully. I have stage IV Breast cancer, been through a lot and heard many nasty comments people feel the need to share with some other patients. People need to learn to be happy without trying to bring others down- especially when they don’t know the how/why things may be.

End rant. πŸ™‚

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Lea says · 01.29.15

I also LOOOOOOve the EL BB! Dbl wear light was a bit too much but the BB is just right…stays on all day! Will have to try the lotus cream. Thanks as always for honest reviews and great pics!

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Ashley says · 01.29.15

What color/brand lipstick/gloss do you use? We have the same skin tone and I am always searching for the perfect one and you have it! Or, are you using just chapstick?

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Monica says · 01.29.15

I know you’re a beauty blogger, but DANG! Go without makeup more often, naturally beautiful. Not that you don’t look amazing in the last picture, but for being 8 or 9 months pregnant and having a 13 month old. Wow! Go mama!

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Kristen says · 01.29.15

That skin perfector looks very intriguing! I need to try that πŸ™‚ You look great by the way…
http://www.getchaglowon.com

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nana says · 01.30.15

please share your current skincare routine! πŸ™‚

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Jamie says · 01.30.15

I’ve never tried the Estee Lauder BB Cream. It seems to remind me of the new Bare Escentuals Complexion Rescue

Hello There, Lady!

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Chris True says · 01.30.15

Kate! Just wow! We have a saying at our house….WWKD (what would Kate do). You look absolutely stunning! What under eye concealer/brightener might you suggest? I tried the Bye Bye Undereye you had suggested in another favorites blog. My lower eyelash mascara (They’re Real) ends up smearing every time. Congrats in advance on baby! Watching for your news with anticipation!

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Von says · 01.31.15

Sounds so good! I’m going to try to get my hands on the Estee Lauder Double Wear BB cream and the Kiehl’s Micro-blur Skin Perfector.

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Sarah says · 01.31.15

Wow!
I have been playing catch up with your recent posts and you had mentioned somewhere that you have never found a BB you like. I am in that same boat, but picked up the newest bare minerals product yesterday. I wondered to myself if you had seen it/thought of trying it/etc. I see now that the Estee Lauder is doing a great job for you. I have only used complexion rescue once, but was really pleased with the result, especially compared to my previous BB-type experiences. Definitely way more hydrating and gave me a much smoother and more even finish. Hooray for no-makeup makeup!

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Emilee says · 02.02.15

Wow! You have really pretty skin to begin with, but these products make you glow!

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Delaney says · 02.02.15

I have considerably bad acne and I have tried many skin care things to help cover it up, but nothing is working. Do you have any suggestions on some products?:)

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Shannon says · 02.06.15

Hey, I do not know if you have looked into it or not, but the Unblemish regimen with Rodan + Fields is amazing and works great in helping with acne.

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Kim says · 02.03.15

You are beautiful with or without makeup and obviously inside as well. Thanks for being willing to share your “bare”skin with us πŸ™‚ I got pregnancy melasma as well and it went away. Yours is much less than mine was. Well worth the sacrifice for those sweet little ones πŸ™‚ I have 6 and still miss newborns! My first 2 were 14 months apart too πŸ™‚ You are so smart to take time and enjoy the next few months. Best wishes!

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Jeannine says · 02.03.15

Thanks for yet another great blog post! I have gotten so many ideas from your hair tutorials and they’ve always been a winner.

I have to tell you, your skin “Before” is gorgeous. Love the products you are using but you could go barefaced and look amazing!

Best wishes for an uncomplicated delivery & healthy babe…

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Emilie says · 02.06.15

Great post! Would you mind sharing what makeup you’re wearing on your eyes? They’re stunning!

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Ashley says · 02.11.15

I saw the first picture before I started reading and my daughter was sitting next to me and she got so excited that you have freckles. We watch your videos together and read your blog she really loves make up and I try. Anyway she was all excited about her freckles this morning! We really don’t know where she gets them from but I love them and she has always hated them until now! So thank you so much for sharing your pregnancy “freckles” (I know they are not freckles but for us they are today) We will keep you in our prayers during your c-section. PS We think you are having a girl!
-Ashley and Hanna too!

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Sophie says · 02.27.15

I love seeing Kiehl’s products in peoples skin care routine. I’ve tried the Micro Blur a little bit, but haven’t used it enough to see if it’s helped with my pores. I kind of tend to use it as a make up primer instead! It works great for that!

http://www.thesophasaurus.com

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Nicole says · 04.01.15

Beautiful natural look! I was debating on whether to give the Clinique eye serum ago, but thought it might leave my under eyes feeling oily so I would only be able to use it at night and not in the morning before makeup. But it seems to work under makeup as well so I’ll have to give it a go now. Thanks!

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Ashish Davalbhakta says · 08.12.15

BB cream are amazing! truely appreciated for sharing such beautiful makeup routine.

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Dani says · 08.19.15

Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve face cream is next on my wish list! For BB cream, I usually go for Korean beauty brands because the formula suits my skin better.

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Mare says · 10.19.15

What concealer do you use?

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Lauren says · 11.28.15

I am also very interested to know which concealer you use under your eyes? They always look so nice and bright! I pregnant with #2, due to arrive in a few weeks, with a barely 2 yr old… I know I will be in need of some undereye concealing, especially considering my 2 year old still doesn’t sleep through the night! Thanks

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Astha says · 05.05.16

I am a huge fan of Kiehl’s and I wanna get the blur skin perfector asap πŸ™‚

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Alicia says · 10.14.16

I ordered some trial packets tonight for the rough bumps and redness on my upper arms. Then I found your site and your write up after using Choice for 3 weeks. Very informative. Thanks!

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