How to Look Like You Actually Got 8 Hours of Sleep

Sarah

Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder ($22): 

This is a feather weight illuminating powder that diffuses light and brightens the face instantly. I don’t normally use a powder, but after several recent sleepless nights, I decided to brush this amazing powder over my tinted moisturizer.  I didn’t notice the difference myself right away, but after receiving several comments about my “glowing skin” I am now a believer. All you need to do is brush a small amount of powder over the entire face, concentrating on the under eye area. The result will be a smooth, line free finish that will look make you like you actually woke up refreshed!

Nancy

Bare Minerals Stroke of Light Eye Brightener 

($22): When I'm looking for a little brightening under the eye area, I reach for the new Bare Minerals Stroke of Light Eye Brightener. This product comes in 4 sheer luminous shades that go on creamy and smooth and do not crease. They contain peptides so they diffuse fine lines.  There are no sulfates, synthetic fragrance or dyes so they are non- irritating.  Product is applied with the padded wand  either over concealer or alone in corners of the eyes and below eyes to diffuse discoloration and dark circles. I usually just use a fingertip to blend the product seamlessly into the skin for a refreshed and wide awake look.

Our Search for the Perfect Mascara

Sarah

L'Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes ($8.95):  I starting using Voluminous Million Lashes a few months ago after hearing a friend rave about it. It separates my lashes while still giving them volume. It glides on smoothly without a lot of extra effort and applications. Perfect for every day use.

Lancome Hypnose Star ($28):  Hypnose star is worth the splurge. I have been a fan of Lancome's Hypnose Mascara for years and the biggest difference between the two is Hypnose Star's dual action brush. It can take a little getting used to, but I found that it's easiest to apply with the flat side of the brush first then use the curved side to finish.  The overall effect is thick, dark, dramatic lashes. 

Nancy

Maybelline Mega Plush Volum' Express Mascara ($6.99): I am currently trying out Maybelline Mega Plush Volume Express Mascara.  I like this a lot for everyday! It separates my unruly, wavy lashes & gives them definition.

Yves Saint Laurent Shocking ($30): For night, I am using Yves Saint Laurent Shocking.  It definitely oomphs up my eyelashes, almost like wearing false eyelashes!  It does tend to be a bit goopy, but it's nothing that an eyelash comb can’t fix.

OUR EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS

SARAH
Dior Addict Lip Glow ($30): Perfect for every day use. Super moisturizing and tones down my favorite bright lipsticks during the day so they are more work appropriate. Worn alone, it brightens and  accentuates the natural coloring of your lips. 

Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer ($43) - Gives just enough coverage with a little sheen to make your skin appear flawless in the most natural way. Plus it has SPF 20 in it, not nearly high enough for my fair skin but great for the mornings when I'm running late and only have time for one step.

MAC Oversexed Plushglass ($19.50): Looks like an intimidating dark purple in the tube, but goes on the lips as a shimmering, sheer dark mauve with hints of gold sparkle to give your lips more dimension. Goes with any makeup look, day or night. It's the one product I recommend to friends and family no matter what their age or style.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencil in Rockstar ($19): These are hands down the best waterproof eyeliner pencils that I’ve found. They come in a wide range of colors, but Rockstar is the one that I keep coming back to. The color is a dark eggplant shade with just a hint of shimmer when the light hits it, giving it just enough pop to make it extra special.

Benefit Chacha Tint Cheek and Lip Stain ($29): This is the perfect pick me up for any face! It is a coral tinted stain that lasts for hours. I found it to be natural and beautiful both on the lips and cheeks. It may take a little practice to get used to the nail polish style brush but the radiant results are worth the little bit of extra effort in the beginning. Use a small amount and blend immediately or it will set on the skin and ruin that natural flush that we are all trying to achieve.

NANCY

Studio Fix Powder Foundation ($27):  A one-step application of foundation and powder that gives your face a flawless, matte finish. 

 MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Lightyear ($29):  A velvety soft powder with a slight metallic finish. Adds highlights to cheeks or can be used lightly all over the face. It gives my skin a natural, soft, peachy glow.

Dior Shimmer Powder in Diamant Ambre ($44):  A shimmering pressed powder with shades of ivory, champagne, tan, bronze and peach.   Can be used as a highlight to liven up the face or eyes.  Works best on warmer complexions to give a natural radiance.

Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer ($20):  This amazing product is now in a very useable squeeze tube. It comes in four different shades including Eden (matte nude), Greed (shimmery gold), Sin (champagne shimmer) and Original (dries invisible). I prefer the Original for everyday looks but reach for Sin when I want to bring a little glamour to my eyes.

Ecotools Kabuki Brush Set  ($14):  This set includes four full size brush heads  that are extremely soft and easy to use. Perfect for travel or even throwing in your purse for touch ups. Each one of the brushes has it's own purpose, including conceal, bronze, contour, and buff.