It’s both a blessing and curse that Sephora is located only 2 miles away from campus. A college girl’s budget doesn’t allow for spending thousands of dollars at a store that most like to call heaven, so it is important that you absolutely love everything you buy there. I can usually pick up the majority of my needed beauty products at a drugstore for an affordable price, however there are a few Sephora essentials that are worth the extra buck!
1. Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo $11-21
As someone who suffers from greasy hair, I have tried several different dry shampoos over the years. This particular brand from Sephora is the only one I swear by. I’m not sure what makes this one so much better than the rest, but it works perfectly and lasts a long time! All you have to do is use the pointy cap to separate your hair into sections, and then lightly squeeze and shake some of the product into your scalp. Brush your fingers through your hair to rub it in and you’re done in seconds!
2. Sephora Collection Outrageous Volume Mascara $15
I always get asked if I’m wearing fake eyelashes or if I have eyelash extensions and the answer is: no! All I do to make my eyelashes longer is use this simple product. Yes, I have naturally long eyelashes, but even if you don’t, this mascara will give them that longer, fuller appearance. It’s super dramatic and comes in three shades; my personal favorite is the ultra-black color. It’s actually one of the less expensive products on this list, so buying it is a no brainer!
3. Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz $21
This eyebrow pencil will change your life. I just recently started filling in my eyebrows because I never thought I needed to since I’ve had thick, full brows my whole life. However, just lightly filling them in will change your whole look for the better, not to mention they appear more defined in photos. This product is a mechanical pencil on one end and a spooley on the other. Available in 9 shades, you are bound to find the perfect one to match your hair color. If you are unsure how to match your eyebrow pencil to your hair color, the beauty experts at Sephora love helping people with this product!
4. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion $12-31
This is a must-have in my beauty bag. It is extremely necessary for those hot, sweaty nights out, and will ensure that your eye shadow stays on perfectly for hours without creasing. Coming in a squeeze tube, this product glides right over your skin and makes your eye shadow colors pop for a more vibrant effect.
5. Urban Decay Naked Palette $54
This might just be the most well-known Sephora product out there. Everyone should own an eye shadow palette for convenience, and I think this one is the best option. There are 3 different versions of the Naked palette with 12 eye shadows in each. Each palette gives you the perfect combination of colors for whatever look you’re creating. It’s a little pricier than the other products on this list, but I can honestly say that after owning mine for over 2 years, it is definitely worth the splurge!
6. Nars Blush $30
I own so many different brands of blush, however I always seem to find myself coming back to this one. If you’re looking for a blush that is easy to apply, stays on all day/night, and comes in many shades, then Nars blushes are definitely for you. Each color is highly pigmented and flatters all skin tones. My personal favorite is orgasm—a peachy pink shade with gold shimmer packed into the powder. This color goes well with any makeup look!
7. Glamglow Youthmud Face Mask Treatment $19-69
I first tried out this product when I got it as a sample using my beauty rewards points, and I fell in love with it instantly. It’s a ten minute mud mask made with green tea leaves. This mask makes your skin extremely soft and glowing after you take it off. All you have to do is apply a thin layer to your face and leave it on for about ten minutes, then wash it off with cold water in circular motions to exfoliate. If you are skeptical about this product, try out the 0.5 oz size first, for only $19. I promise you it will be worth it!
8. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzer $30
This is one of the products I use as part of my everyday face routine. Unlike some people who only use bronzer to contour certain areas of their face, I use this bronzer like a loose powder and apply it evenly all over. It comes in two different shades: light/medium and medium/deep. It will give you a natural tanned matte finish. It also smells like chocolate, which is a huge plus!
9. Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion $26
I have struggled with dry skin for many years, and always have trouble finding the perfect moisturizer that will reduce flakiness as much as possible. With cold weather approaching, I opt for this Clinique lotion. One of the main reasons why I love this product is because it comes in a pump packaging rather than a container, which prevents unclean fingers from directly touching the lotion. This moisturizer is unbelievably thin and goes onto the skin so smoothly. It also makes your foundation easier to apply.
10. Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray $15-$26
This product is great for people with naturally thin hair, as it adds volume and texture with its saltwater base. It’s perfect for when you don’t feel like spending more than five minutes trying to style your hair. Just spray it evenly all over damp or dry hair and watch your hair transform into pretty beach waves!