Looking to vamp up your autumn beauty regime? Our editor’s got all the inspo you need. “I’ve been testing out a lot of beauty products recently, and some, I have loved more than others. These are the ones I’ve been unable to put down or replace with an alternative.” – Anien, BSA editor.
Optiphi Facial Cleanser 150ml (R840.00)
I’m loving this gentle soap-free facial cleanser from Optiphi. It cleanses, tones and gently exfoliates all in one step without leaving my skin feeling dry or tight. You only need a little bit to cleanse your face and neck; it lathers really nicely and feels luxurious on the skin. Best of all, it’s suitable for all skin types.
Order online here.
Lamelle Correctives Vita-C Lipid Serum 30ml (R880.00)
My skin tends to be sensitive to vitamin C, but this serum by Lamelle changed it all for me. It contains high potency 20% vitamin C, but what sets it apart is that it is specifically designed for skins that do not tolerate vitamin C well, so you won’t experience irritation, flakiness or redness. It has a lovely citrus-like scent and lightweight formula that absorbs easily. I’ve seen a definite improvement in the intensity of my sun spots (after about three weeks of using this they’re at least one shade lighter) and my skin looks brighter and fresher.
Order online here.
Claire Hill WPC Eye Complex Advanced Anti-Ageing Eye Gel 30ml (R1865.00)
If you’re looking for a high potency eye cream to reduce puffiness and revive your eye area, this is it. It contains a topical muscle relaxant to eliminate excess skin tension, and a plant-based retinol alternative to combat fine lines and wrinkles. It’s reduced my dark circles and made my eye area appear much brighter and “more awake.” I’ve also noticed that the skin looks a lot smoother in the areas where my fine lines have formed. It has a light, silky gel formula that feels cool and refreshing on the skin.
Order online here.
Eau Thermale Avène Thermal Spring Water 150ml (R180.00)
This is by no means a new product, but it’s a permanent part of my routine, no matter what the season. This soothing mist can be used for just about anything (to calm irritable skin, to set your makeup, to soothe burns etc), but my favourite way to use it is to spritz it onto my face throughout the day whenever I need a pick-me-up (which is often!). In summer it is cooling and refreshing if my skin feels hot, and in winter it helps counteract the tightness I experience whenever I’m around heaters or air conditioning.
Order online here.
GUESS Bella Vita Eau de Parfum 100ml (R1099.00)
I absolutely adore GUESS fragrances and this latest launch is by far my favourite GUESS scent. With Italian lemon, black cherries, jasmine, vanilla orchid and musk, it’s the perfect blend of fruity, floral and creamy notes. It’s sensual and seductive, yet simultaneously elegant and sophisticated. And the bottle… a real stand-out on my dressing table!
Order online here.
wet n wild PhotoFocus Dewy Foundation (R119.95)
This is my go-to foundation on days when I want light coverage and a dewy finish (which, let’s face it, is most days). It is such an affordable product, and it offers brilliant value. The formula spreads and blends like a dream. It feels light on my skin and it has an almost second-skin effect: My skin looks clear and even, but you can still see my skin through the foundation. I wear shade Soft Beige, and they have a wide variety of shades from very fair to very dark, available.
Order online here.
Playgirl Glam After Dark Naked Honey Eyeshadow Palette (R149.95)
Twelve stunning eyeshadow shades in a glamorous palette for only R149.95? Yes please! Playgirl recently launched their colour makeup line in SA and I’ve been so impressed. The colour payoff is fantastic and the shadow is long-lasting, the packaging is gorgeous and the prices are really competitive. This Naked Honey eyeshadow palette is my choice for autumn as it houses beautiful warm bronze, auburn, gold, brown and nude shades – perfect for the cosier season!
Order online here.
