New Beauty Things

It’s been a while since I’ve posted—in part because I’ve thrown myself into work, but largely because sharing/writing/doing anything outside of what’s required to make a living isn’t just trivial anymore. It simply feels wrong.

I know happiness isn’t trivial; I mention this only because I get bursts of serotonin or dopamine when I feverishly snap a photo to share something new or get to write about a dream piece I hunted down, but how can I pollute the web with more nothingness when the world is so full of things we should’ve paid attention to before it was too late? Are the little things, material and otherwise, the distraction we deserve (or perhaps require, for respite) or are they now the noise that only accelerates our society’s continued downfall?

Which came first: the chicken or the egg?

What I do know for certain, is that beauty will keep churning out something new even if I avoid writing about it—and no matter how intentional I try to consume, show me a good campaign, thoughtful ingredients, and ad copy I wish I wrote and I’ll hand over my credit card the moment I’ve hit considerable pan on a product. (Which is why I tend to be a few months late—the equivalent to decades given the industry’s new-product cycle.) It’ll be a while before I get back into a rhythm of writing here again, but until then, ahead is something easy to get me warmed up: thoughts on semi-new beauty products that I’ve been using for the last six (plus) months.

• Topicals Faded Brightening & Clearing Serum: Light, non-irritating, effective with commitment. Topicals is simply one of those rare beauty brands that just gets it right.
• Rose Inc. Softlight Luminous Hydrating Concealer: Wanted to love it, but after years of using the original Glossier Stretch Concealer (the only complexion product I used religiously), nothing I’ve tried thus far compares. If you prefer a richer, more full-coverage formula, the Rose Inc. might be up your alley, but my skin doesn’t seem to do well with anything but a silkier, nearly-sheer concealer. Back to the drawing board.
• Merit Clean Lash Mascara: This is my second tube. It’s incredible: lengthening and volumizing yet still natural, wears all day without smudging or flaking, and removes easily with warm water in tubes. Pure, inky perfection.
• Kosas Chemistry AHA Deodorant (Fragrance-Free): To be honest, I don’t (think?) I’ve ever needed deodorant, but I figure it better to be a considerate Californian than not, especially in this heat wave. I love the care factor and application, and texture-wise, it’s like a wet gel that dries down quickly. Definitely preferable to traditional stick formulas and chicer, too.

More to come soon—there’s a box of newness begging to be used, but I’ve only got one face. Stay tuned.

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xx