Fall is right around the corner, and we already know what that means: Comfy sweaters, boots, scarves, pretending to look candid in Instagram photos while throwing colored leaves, and ordering pumpkin spice in, well, everything. But what does this mean for our beauty routine? How are we supposed to keep up our skin’s summer glow or naturally golden hair from the sun? Luckily, it’s no biggie, because hidden amongst the abyss of Ulta, Sephora, and our other fave beauty supply stores are life-savers to get your beauty routine out with summer (as much as we can mentally allow), and in with autumn!
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
Want your make-up to stay put all day long, despite the sudden breeze of autumn totally threatening to blow away your freshly done contouring job? Spritz a few pumps of this all over your face prior to any make-up application, and be amazed at the fresh, dewy look your skin has all day long. Not only does this product immediately feel refreshing, but it actually awakens your skin even after it’s just been through round 5 of the snooze alarm. This baby locks your make-up in place through class, sorority recruitment, date night, girls night out, and the many other events we collegiate ladies participate in. (Note: Feel free to give a quick “finishing” spritz after your make-up is on, just for extra holding power!)
Price: $16 for 1.0 oz, $32 for 3.9 oz
Benefit Sun Beam Highlighter
This highlighter from Benefit is the absolute PERFECT way to maintain a glowy, bright, golden complexion, even after your tan has begun to fade. This has been a staple in my make-up bag for about 4 years, and it’s the only one of its kind on the market. A tiny bit goes a really long way when applied at the very top of each of your cheekbones, and about a dot on top of the arch of each of your eyebrows. I promise that you will see a visible difference in your finished make-up after using this product. Once you have it, you won’t be able to live without it. With this product on hand, you’ll feel like it’s summer all year long!
Price: $26 for 13.0 mL
Tarte Cheek Stain (In the Color “Blushing Bride”)
Your search for the perfect blush ends right here, right now. (Seriously.) Gone are the days of looking in the mirror and feeling horrified at the dullness of your skin, and getting frutsrated that the blush you just applied an hour ago is now completely invisible. All women should be eternally gratefufl to tarte for coming out with this product. This is the perfect buildable shade to wear as a subtle, girly pink by day, and sexy, bold pink by night. It’s creamy texture makes it nearly impossible to budge, and one tube of this can definitely last up to 2 full years. It is recommended to apply with your finger first, as opposed to placing the applicator directly onto your skin. Dab onto the apples of your cheeks for the perfect smile to go with your favorite fall lip shade. (Tip: Use this on your lips too!)
Price: Originally $30 per 0.5 oz, NOW ON SALE at Sephora for $16 per 0.5 oz
Mac Lipstick, (In the Color “Brave”)
We’re all guilty of this: Staring endlessly at the MAC lipstick counter, so overhwlemed by all of the colors and choices…How are we expected to find the perfect one? Next time, skip all that, pick up a tube of Brave, and go reward yourself with a Starbucks. This is the definition of a perfect Fall Transition color. It’s mauve base with infusions of pink make it the ideal match for the color transitions from pastels to earth tones going on in our wardrobes. Pair this with any outfit, and don’t be afraid to rock it to a job interview for this semester or to a night in the city for dinner and drinks.
Price: $17, per tube
Nexxus Color Assure Shampoo & Conditioner
Our highlights and dyes for the new semester look so flawless, natural, and fresh! They totally aren’t going to fade within a matter of weeks right? Ugh, don’t we all dream of that? ..Fortunately, our dreams may have finally become a reality with this shampoo by Nexxus. It’s ingredients are 100% sulfate free and safe for girls who have just sat through hours of waiting in the salon chair for her stylist to save her roots from looking scary. Your hair will feel so clean and soft after just one use, and you will notice no visual difference in your hair color. Don’t let that precious $200 you just shelled out end up going to waste, prolong your beautiful hair color with this dynamic duo, and rock your style all autumn long!
Price, $19.99, per bottle