Bronzer Find: Nars Illuminator

I would love nothing more than to to be Magda. To lay in the sun all freaking day, soak up that vitamin D, and get to a golden brown. 

Actually, I was Magda. In college. Hence why I have to avoid the sun at almost all costs now. But I crave that glow. Even in the winter months. 

Bronzer is the best. The absolute best. And while I love a great blush, I really need the look of a bit of sun on my face to feel human. Especially when my skin has not seen the sun in months (hello February). 

The problem with a powder bronzer (much like a powder blush) is that it seems to disappear within hours of applying. So I researched a way to have that glow last all day and into the night. 

Meet Nars Illuminator. 

I use it in Laguna and apply just the very smallest amount where the sun would hit my face if I had been laying around like Magda (top of forehead, top of cheeks, maybe a little on the jaw line for contour). Blend well and you are set. It wasn't even designed to be used like this (you can apply before foundation for a natural illuminated look too), but I love love love it like this. 

Bonus is it comes in a few colors, so if you are looking for blush with more staying power it comes in the ever popular pinky Orgasm. Or if you want just a bit of sheen a pretty and subtle beige. 

Happy Healthy Bronzing. 

xo

Erin 

Green Machine

Primer has long been something that I always bought, but was never completely sold on. If you have never used it, it is supposed to help smooth the surface of your skin before you apply make up, fill in any little lines, and help give your makeup staying power. I also have oily skin, so adding another product on top of moisturizer and sunscreen is tough.

I think I may have found my match, but I needed some convincing given this liquid's appearance. I mean it is green, and not a pretty shade, an ugly one.

What Smashbox has figured out is that a primer should also help us even out skin tone problems, like redness and your dark spots. The green adjust version of Smashbox Photo Finish Color Correcting Foundation Primer helps some of my redness disappear and after a light fluff of powder, it is non-existent. They also make other colors like apricot for dull skin, purple to brighten, and a light version for all over smoothness.

The consistency is super silky, not oily, and makes putting on anything after it a breeze. Any brush just glides right over your face. You can find it at Ulta, another dangerous place for me to wander. But, if I find products like this I will go back again and again.

xo
Erin