Our Editors’ Fall Beauty Must-Haves
Written by James Kicinski-McCoy
When the seasons change, it usually means that our habits, our wardrobe, and the contents of our beauty bag change, too. Whether it’s a switch in hues for the colder, darker months or a shift in formulas due to needing thicker coverage, sometimes it’s essential. That’s why we decided to share what our Editors have in their fall beauty bags. From haircare to fragrance and nail color to skincare, find out what James and Katie are loving and why below!
Katie’s beauty picks:
“I first became a fan of InFiore after experiencing its intoxicating oils during the massages I get at International Orange in San Francisco. The ingredients are all-natural and rubbing a dab of this stuff onto my bod from time to time mentally takes me back to the spa.” Dayala Body Balm, $90, InFiore.
“Even though I gave birth to my son 2 1/2 years ago, I still have crazy baby hairs from the post-pregnancy loss/regrowth stage. A pea-sized amount of this stuff glossed over the top of my hair helps keep my flyaways at bay on days when I need to look pulled-together.” Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine, $28.99, Amazon.
“I have a very strict makeup and skincare routine, thanks to the anti-acne program my aesthetician Kimmy Williams has me on. Alima Pure is one of the only brands that I can safely use, thanks to it actually being non-comedogenic. So many products out there say they won’t clog pores, but most of it is all marketing. If you suffer from acne, even mildly, you really have to watch out!” Alima Pure Satin Matte Blush, $20, The Detox Market.
“My mascara of the moment. This stuff might not wash off super easy at night, but it helps me look more awake and presentable during the day. It’s worth the raccoon look when I drop my kid off to preschool in the morning.” Buxon Lash Mascara, $19, Sephora.
“I’m still into the dark nail thing and a deep shade of purple feels a tad feminine and not overtly goth. It’s also great for fall.” OPI Lincoln Park After Dark, $9.29, Overstock.
“The packaging of this made-in-California brand is what initially got me. And all of the aromatic concentrates are so thoughtfully formulated. This one even includes a rose quartz crystal inside that’s been charged by the full moon. Bring on the haute hippie vibes!” Love Aromatic Concentrate, $60, Studio Sandoval.
Beauty Bag is the Blush Clutch, $35, Baggu.
James’ beauty picks:
“When the cold weather hits, my skin dries out like woah! I have to keep it extra hydrated with a heavy, head-to-toe moisturizer or I get scaly, flakey, itchy skin. Ultra Repair Lotion really does what it says—repairs and heals even the most extreme and driest conditions. My daughter Plum uses it to keep her eczema under control, too!” First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Lotion, $28, Sephora.
“Although I have numerous bottles and jars of beauty products within arms reach, it’s rare that one becomes a mainstay in my ever-evolving routine. I have tried dozens of serums over the years, and I must say that Quench is leader of the pack when it comes to moisture.” Kate Somerville Quench Hydrating Serum, $75, Nordstrom.
“I don’t wear lipstick often, but when I do, it’s always Wild Child. It’s the perfect red for a holiday party, that New Years kiss, or really any other occasion during the year.” Ilia Wild Child Lipstick, $26, Storq.
“I, also, suffer from annoying flyaways, especially when the climate is dry. I’ve tried everything to tame them from creams, fluids, and pomades and nothing works quite like Foil spray.” R+Co Foil Frizz + Static Control Spray, $27, Neiman Marcus.
“This polish is all I’ll be wearing on my nails this season! It’s the perfect cross between nude and desert sand.” Essie Nail Polish in Sand Tropez, $8.50, Beauty.
“I am totally obsessed with all things Glossier, especially the Perfecting Skin Tint. This lightweight fluid brightens and evens out the skin tone, while keeping it looking natural and dewy. I’m obsessed!” Perfecting Skin Tint, $26, Glossier.
“When my face just needs some extra love, I reach for one of my Alpha Beta Peel Pads. It’s like getting a mini facial in your bathroom. They slough off the dead skin and leave my complexion glowing. I prefer them in the individual packages as opposed to the jars because they don’t dry out over time and are perfect for traveling.” Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Pads, $16, Sephora.
Beauty Bag is the Leather Travel Case, $95, Cuyana.
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