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Beauty Recs I Swear By (from a Retired Esthetician)
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items As a retired esthetician and lifelong beauty enthusiast, these are the makeup and skincare products I keep coming back to. Whether it’s for long wear, clean ingredients, or just unbeatable results—these picks have earned their spot. Ask me anything i...
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Makeup Staples That Actually Last
Skincare Picks from a Retired Esto
Makeup Staples That Actually Last
I’ve tested a lot of makeup over the years, but these are the ones that truly hold up—from early morning meetings to late-night horror streams. I reach for these because they’re reliable, comfortable, and give me creative freedom without sacrificing ...
You really can’t beat the price for the quality. Their Power Grip Primer is a staple in my kit—it holds makeup like a dream. I also love their cleansing balm (super gentle and works fast), and their new lip stain + plumper combo is surprisingly luxe....
e.l.f. Cosmetics
I love this tint that actually lasts. It gives decent color payoff without the dryness of most stains. AND it doesn't fade to hot pink. I usually layer it under balm or gloss for an all-day finish.
Best Glossy Lip Stain that doesn't turn hot pink
This gloss is my current obsession—it gives a soft, glassy shine and a gentle plump without that burning tingle some glosses have. I wear it alone or over a stain when I want that fresh, full-lip look without the stickiness
Pout Clout Lip Plumping Gloss Pen
This is the primer I reach for when I need my makeup to stay put all day. It grips my foundation like glue without feeling heavy—especially great for long work days or event setups.
Power Grip Primer + 4% Niacinamide
If you’ve ever wanted your pores to just disappear, this is the holy grail. The texture feels like velvet, and it grips makeup like a dream—no sliding, no caking. I’ve used this on both dry and combo skin types and it blurs everything out without fee...
Poreless Putty Face Primer
These are my go-to for lip and eye products. The colors are so vibrant and they actually stay on—no smudging halfway through the day. If you're into bold or creative looks, their shade range is hard to beat. Great for both everyday wear and full glam...
NYX Cosmetics
Super ‘new to makeup’ friendly eyeliner! This liner does not budge. Whether I’m crying, sweating, or surviving Alaskan wind gusts, the pigment stays rich and sharp. The brush tip gives great control for both crisp wings and smudgy lash lines. A must-...
Epic Ink Waterproof Liquid Liner | NYX Professional Makeup
100% my go-to for cosplay or ‘fun’ makeup. If you love a matte, pitch-black line that stays, this one’s a winner. Once it sets, it’s locked in all day (and night). I use an oil cleanser to remove it—yes, it’s that stubborn in the best way. Perfect fo...
Epic Wear Matte Waterproof Eyeliner | NYX Professional Makeup
This is my ride-or-die setting spray. It locks down my whole face without drying me out. Works for Alaska wind, event lights, or a full day of cosplay. Keeps everything matte but natural—no weird chalky cast, no sticky finish. A staple in my kit.
Matte Finish Long-Lasting Face Mist 16HR Vegan
You want the most stubborn lipstick ever?! This stuff does. not. budge. It’s my go-to when I need my lip color to last through a full event, meal, or livestream. The shade range is great, and once it sets, you’ll need an oil-based remover to take it ...
Super Stay Matte Ink® Liquid Lipstick
Absolutely love the wide variety! From dug store dupes to high end quality. Can find something for every need.
Ulta Beauty
Skincare Picks from a Retired Esto
As a retired esthetician, I don’t gatekeep when it comes to skincare. These products have earned my trust over years of real use. Whether you're building a routine from scratch or upgrading one step at a time, these are the lotions, toners, masks, an...
As a retired esthetician, this brand is a secret weapon. YonKa’s skincare line is spa-grade—especially the toners and masks. The serums absorb like silk, and their moisturizers keep my skin balanced without ever feeling greasy. If you’re looking for ...
Yon-Ka Paris
This is my go-to when I want to see real results for aging skin. The line is ultra-luxurious but delivers — especially the eye cream. One of my past clients had to stop using it because it was tightening her skin so well it was interfering with a pla...
Advanced Anti-Aging Cream - Excellence Code Creme
This hydrating toner is a longtime staple. It smells amazing, feels refreshing, and leaves my skin feeling balanced without being stripped. It’s alcohol-free and perfect for dry or sensitive skin types. The mist-style application is a bonus.
The Best Dry Skin Toner - Lotion Yon-Ka PS
This is my lazy-night holy grail. When I’m too tired to do my full routine, this cleanser removes makeup and grime gently without drying me out. No rinsing needed. It’s one of the only micellar waters I actually trust.
Eau Micellaire, Cleansing Makeup Remover Micellar Water | 200 ml
This is my favorite at-home exfoliator — no scrubbing, no harsh grit, just a gentle gel that lifts away dull skin and leaves your face glowing. Perfect for sensitive skin or anyone looking to smooth texture without irritation.
Gommage Yon-Ka, Exfoliating, Clarifying Face Gel, 50 ml