Mascara and Truffle Surprises: September Favorites

The theme of this month’s favorites is “things that surprised me,” products I didn’t expect to love, but totally did. For what it’s worth, I also love when people surprise me. Sometimes, I assume someone is going to be a certain way, and then I meet them, and I’m like, ok what? This person is so much cooler.

Our cat William, pictured above, is the best surprise I’ve had in recent memory. We went to the shelter to see his brother, Wilbur, not knowing he had a brother with him in the kennel. Read more about them HERE. Now, I can’t imagine life without this sweet little marshmallow man!

Essence Lash Princess Curl & Volume

I’ve raved about the original, miraculously $5 Lash Princess, but honestly? I like this version even better. The hourglass brush is reminiscent of , for a fifth of the price. It’s just so impressive, especially for $5.00.

Dossier Fragrance

For the longest time, my signature fragrance was Chanel Chance. Before that, it was Chanel Allure, which is hilarious, because it’s a very mature scent…that I wore in high school lolz. I don’t buy any Chanel now because it’s not a cruelty free company and ya girl don’t hang with those kind anymore.

Would you believe that I’ve found a vegan, cruelty free, $29 Chanel Chance?! Dossier checks all the boxes and I’m so impressed with their fragrances.

Wood Hyacinth is long lasting and to me, identical to Chanel Chance at a fraction of the cost, in a cleaner, cruelty free formula. Definitely check out Dossier to find a version of the scent you love.

Replenix Tinted Brightening Eye Cream

I’m really amazed by this product and I don’t remember the last time I said that. To be clear, Replenix sent it to me, and I am so glad they did.

On a good day, I wouldn’t even need concealer. I don’t have a lot of “good days” but when I do? This makes early wedding mornings so simple.

Skin & Co Shimmering Skin Oil

I’ve been using products from Skin & Co for about 2 months now. The Shimmering Skin Oil smells downright heavenly, much like the rest of the Skin & Co Truffle Therapy products. Beyond that, it’s hydrating, but lightweight, so would be ideal for someone with combination skin. Though I have dry skin, I love this for day time wear and for under makeup.

I got one of these from Target’s dollar section, but as you may know, that cycles out, so I found a on Amazon. Ok, so, here is why I love this. Loofahs get gross in the shower, growing mold and falling apart. This won’t fall apart, is far less likely to grow mold due to the silicone material, and still exfoliates just as well.

Amika Normcore Shampoo

I have a horrifying confession to make. I used Suave shampoo for a large part of my adulthood. I realized that I should apply the same standards to my hair that I apply to my skincare products. Also, my hairstylist and friend said I needed to get my life right. She recommended Amika’s Normcore line and I love it.

I’ve found that my hair doesn’t get oily as quickly, smells lovely and looks pretty too. I’ve now colored my grays once so I won’t be going back to trash shampoos now.