(Fall beauty products.)
Fall in central Texas is short and sweet, but we savor it while it lasts. The slightly cooler days and lack of humidity definitely affect my skin, and I like to add more moisture to my skincare routine as the days move closer to winter. I’ve heard and read about the benefits of hyaluronic acid for the past few years, and I recently added Now Foods’ Hyaluronic Acid Firming Serum to my nightly regimen. It’s an affordable way to add an extra layer of moisture before bed, and I apply just one pump before using my nightly moisturizer. The benefits touted include minimizing fine lines, which I haven’t really noticed, but I definitely enjoy the hydration and my skin looks happy and rested in the morning.
I’ve read about Glossier’s products for a while now and have been curious to try them, so after a little research, I purchased a bottle of Perfecting Skin Tint and Boy Brow, two of the brand’s standout products. While I’m still loving Gressa Skin’s Minimalist Corrective Serum Foundation and am almost finished with my first bottle, it is known to cling to dry patches, which I definitely notice more in the cooler months. Many reviews for Glossier’s Skin Tint recommend mixing it with another foundation to add moisture, and that’s exactly how I use it, too. The Skin Tint is light and buildable on its own, leaving a hint of color and smoothness without the mask-like effect of thicker foundations. I enjoy using it alone, but it becomes a Holy Grail product for me when mixed with my daily foundation. I hesitated for months before purchasing Glossier’s Skin Tint, but I’m thrilled that I finally decided to try it.
Boy Brow by Glossier is an excellent brow gel that quickly dries to a very natural finish. The online reviews for this product are amazing, and I definitely recommend it, too. The most common complaint I’ve read and experienced is the excessive amount of gel that comes out with the brush. I’ve found it easiest to wipe the excess product on the tube, but that’s sometimes difficult and I often end up wiping it onto a tissue or towel. Still, it’s the best brow product I’ve ever used, hands down, and leaves a very natural touch of color.
I’m keeping my beauty routine very simple these days and I really love the look of healthy, dewy skin. These products make it easy to get ready quickly in the mornings and I’m glad I finally decided to try them. Are you switching up your beauty routine for fall?
(Affiliate links are used in this post.)
Jacto, a jewelry line based in Brooklyn, is the gorgeous result of a partnership between the owner of a sustainable seafood company and a former shoe designer. Combining modern aesthetics with a desire to repurpose the waste found at commercial fishing docks and seafood sellers, Jacto’s jewelry is thoughtfully made and truly unique. Each piece utilizes fish skin or bone and is an original work of art.
The founders of Jacto, Poull Brien and Melanie Maggio, graciously loaned me a beautiful piece to view in person for a few days. I was sent the TGO Chain and Claw Bracelet, created from found crab dipped in brass. It’s a stunning piece that can be wrapped around your wrist or worn as a necklace that hits just above your collarbone, making it a truly versatile part of any outfit. I was really drawn to the edginess of the design, which is perfect for pairing with more feminine clothing. The bracelet is heavy and substantial, and feels like a true statement piece.
Each Jacto piece is crafted by hand by Melanie, using conflict-free metal, and typically takes two weeks to complete. This attention to detail results in one-of-a-kind jewelry that reflects its creator’s dedication to sustainability and love for the beauty of the sea. In a similar way, Jacto’s designs, which begin with fish that will feed people, come full circle by utilizing the remaining parts to create beautiful jewelry that will last a lifetime. Nothing is wasted and the entire fish is used, which is a common tenet of the nose-to-tail food movement, and an excellent way to honor the lives of these animals.
I really enjoyed my preview of Jacto’s beautiful line, which is filled with many stunning pieces. If you’re interested in purchasing a Jacto piece, use the code I868YWVNTYIL to receive 15% off through November 30th.
Many thanks to Jacto for their help with this post!
(Photo via Death to the Stock Photo.)
September is National Self Improvement month and ThirdLove, the San Francisco-based lingerie brand that offers a cool “Try Before You Buy” app, is putting a different spin on things by encouraging women to love and accept ourselves as we are. It’s a novel idea in our fast-paced world, and I especially like the concept of slowing down and taking time to be grateful for what makes each of us interesting and unique.
I’ve always shied away from the notion of self improvement, and at 38, I feel fairly confident in my own skin. But the fact that an entire month is dedicated to the improvement of one’s self just goes to show that we need a reminder, every now and again, that things are okay right now, just as they are. And I’m all for that.
In addition, ThirdLove is partnering with gymnast Shannon Miller, an Olympian and ovarian cancer survivor, to raise money for the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance. Through September 18th, 25% of the proceeds from these select items will be donated to the research fund. It’s a great way to support an important cause while remembering to take some time out for yourself in September.
